There’s no simple answer to whether you should turn off the water heater when bathing. It really depends on a number of factors, like the type of water heater, its condition, the electrical network, its age, and the user of the wet room.
What Do the Experts and Appliance Manufacturers Say About Turning the Water Heater Off When Bathing?
Many consumers turn off the water heater before showering because of concerns about the risk of electric shock. However, water heater manufacturers reassure us that these appliances are perfectly safe. Modern models have multiple protections, are winterized, and, with proper installation and operation, pose no risk when showering with the appliance on.
They say that all the scary stories about boilers exploding or electric appliances causing fatalities while bathing actually refer to very old appliances that were improperly installed, depreciated, malfunctioning, or had installation issues in the home.
If your appliance is properly grounded, it’ll be less likely to cause an electric shock if there’s a leak. Some types of circuit breakers are designed to protect electrical circuits from short circuits. This also stops the circuit from overloading and causing a fire.
But can we be sure that our appliance is properly installed, that there aren’t any issues with the installation, and that the technician who installed it knows what they’re doing? If you’re unsure about these issues and have some concerns, you can always disconnect the water heater from its knob or outside switch to help put your mind at ease. Taking a shower is a great way to relax and wash away the day’s stress.
If you’re stressed and afraid, you won’t feel refreshed or relaxed after a shower. After all, it only takes a few seconds to turn off the appliance. If your well-being and peace of mind depend on it, do it, even though experts say you shouldn’t turn off the water heater when bathing.
Is It a Good Idea to Turn Off the Water Heater When Bathing? When Is It Not a Good Idea to Do So?
In today’s fast-paced world, we often need hot water right away. If we don’t have a big water heater, we’re stuck with what we have. In these cases, there are instantaneous water heaters, which heat the water on the fly. This type of boiler heats the water in real time, as we bathe. So, it’s pretty much impossible to turn it off.
What Are Some Ways to Reduce the Risk of Electric Shock When Using Electrical Appliances in Wet Rooms?
To feel calm and confident when entering the bathroom, it’s important to take measures to ensure the safety of your water heater. These measures include:
- Make sure you’re using only water heaters and other electrical appliances designed for wet rooms that are certified to safety standards.
- Make sure you buy your electrical appliances and water heaters from an official importer or dealer, not from a private party.
- Only use genuine parts when repairing the appliance, and have it done in a qualified workshop.
- The installation should be done by a company with proven professionals, not by someone who’s discovered the job through an ad.
Only use appliances designed for wet rooms in wet rooms.
- Get your water heaters from a reliable brand. Look for ones made with high-quality materials, designed and built to be safe and protect against electric shocks.
- If you see any damage to your appliance, stop using it right away. If you hear strange noises, see or feel a leak, turn off your water heater and take it to an authorized service facility.
- Turn off your water heater when the wet room is being used by children or anyone who might not be able to judge the danger.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and relaxing shower without worrying about the risks associated with your water heater.
