Using a water heater might seem like a simple household task, but making even small mistakes can have serious, life-threatening consequences. Imagine being in the shower when your water heater suddenly explodes—this is not just a scary scenario, it can actually happen if safety precautions are ignored.

Recently, on November 14, a water heater exploded in Quang Ninh. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident caused significant property damage. This event serves as a serious reminder: improper use of water heaters is far more dangerous than most people realize.

Here are three deadly mistakes many households commonly make, along with tips to avoid them.

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1. Leaving the Water Heater On 24/7

Many families, especially those with young children or frequent need for hot water, leave their water heaters running all day for convenience. While it may seem practical, this habit is extremely risky.

• Electrical Insulation Damage: Continuous operation causes the internal wiring insulation to wear down over time. This makes the system more prone to short circuits or electrical leakage.

• Increased Risk of Explosion: A water heater left on constantly can overheat or malfunction, increasing the chance of explosion, especially for older units.

Safety Tip: Only turn on your water heater when you need hot water. For households with multiple users, consider installing a timer or smart control system so the heater operates only during peak use. This not only improves safety but also saves electricity.

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2. Not Turning Off the Water Heater While Bathing

This is the most critical safety rule when using a water heater. Many people assume that modern heaters with automatic shut-off features are completely safe, but this is not always true.

• Electric Shock Risk: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If the heater malfunctions or has worn-out parts, electricity can leak into the water.

• Old Units Are Risky: Older water heaters or those with damaged components are especially dangerous. The auto shut-off mechanism might fail, leaving you vulnerable to severe electric shock or even death.

Safety Tip: Always turn off your water heater before entering the shower. Even if your unit is new, developing the habit of switching it off adds an extra layer of protection.

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3. Neglecting Maintenance and Cleaning

Over time, water heaters accumulate mineral deposits and sediment inside, particularly around the heating element. Neglecting maintenance can cause multiple problems:

• Reduced Efficiency: Sediment build-up decreases heating efficiency, making the heater work harder and increasing electricity consumption.

• Electrical Hazards: Deposits on heating elements can cause overheating and increase the risk of electric short circuits or fires.

• Shortened Lifespan: A poorly maintained water heater is more likely to fail unexpectedly, which can be dangerous.

Safety Tip: Schedule professional maintenance and cleaning every 1–2 years, depending on your water quality and usage. Even small, seemingly harmless sediment build-ups can become serious hazards over time.

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Additional Safety Recommendations

1. Install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): This device can cut off electricity instantly if it detects leakage, greatly reducing the risk of electric shock.

2. Regularly Inspect Your Heater: Check hoses, wiring, and valves for wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts immediately.

3. Educate All Family Members: Make sure everyone knows how to safely operate the heater, including turning it off during showers and recognizing warning signs of malfunction.

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✅ Conclusion

Water heaters are essential household appliances, but misuse can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Avoiding these three deadly mistakes can save lives:

1. Don’t leave the heater on all day.

2. Always turn off the heater before bathing.

3. Maintain and clean the unit regularly.

By following these guidelines, you not only protect your family but also extend the life of your water heater and reduce energy costs. Safety and efficiency go hand in hand.