Most people today have water heaters for comfort, and most are running on gas. However, the exhaust gas must be directed and vented correctly so it won’t be trapped inside the house and cause health hazards. In most cases, the gas can be dangerous and risky.
When prolonged for a long time, it may cause serious health problems. So, what should you know about this issue?
Is Gas Water Heater Exhaust Dangerous?
Worried about gas water heater exhaust being dangerous? It’s all about the vent pipe. This pipe carries away the hot gases that the heater makes, keeping the air in your home safe. Setting it up is super important to stop bad gases, like carbon monoxide, from entering your house.
“Proper venting of gas water heaters is essential. Mishandled combustion gases can lead to hazardous situations, including carbon monoxide buildup, which poses a serious risk if not managed correctly.”
Read also: Is Hot Water Heater Knocking Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is a sneaky gas you can’t see or smell, so having a detector near your water heater is smart. It’ll let you know if there’s a problem. Also, ensuring enough fresh air around your water heater helps it work better and keeps dangerous gases from returning inside.
Keeping the area around your water heater well-ventilated is key. This means the heater gets enough air to work and keeps you safe from those harmful gases. If you’re unsure, getting a pro to check things out and ensure your vent pipe is doing its job is best.
How Dangerous Is Water Heater Backdraft?
First-Hand Knowledge: As an experienced HVAC professional, I have encountered multiple instances where homeowners were unaware of the dangers of back drafting. This phenomenon occurs when exhaust gases fail to exit properly, instead reentering the home. Common causes include improper vent installation or obstructions.
The (atmospheric) venting water heater has this unique design where the hot (exhaust) gas should naturally rise and come out of the chimney. If the vent is installed correctly, you won’t have to worry about the exhaust gas problem. However, if the installation is incorrect, the exhaust gas won’t be able to come out of the chimney. Instead, it would go back down to the house, and it would cause a backdraft.
Read also: Gas Hot Water Heater Venting Requirements
A backdraft is a situation where the (toxic) combustion gasses can be dangerous to the family members because they aren’t vented properly. This situation is dangerous and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
The combustion gasses should rise via the chimney and then be released outside. But instead of it, the gas is entering the house back and endangering the people. Backdraft is a common issue with atmospheric gas water heaters.
How to Tell if Your Water Heater Is Venting Properly
It’s good that there are ways to check whether your heater has a backdraft issue. There are some easy ways to do the checking:
- You can place a mirror (just a small one) close to the draft hood. If there is fog on the mirror, it’s proof that moist air is present.
- Cup the hands around the existing draft hood. It’s a vertical pipe with a cone shape located at the top area of the heater. If you feel moist and warm air, then you have a backdraft.
- The water heater has a plastic cap on top of it (where the vent is located). If the plastic cap is deformed or melted, you have a backdraft.
- Check the draft hood for the presence of soot or dark residue.
- You should also check the heater’s top area for corrosive stains. If you see them or spot moisture on the top side of the tank, it can be a solid sign of back-drafting.
Water Heater Venting Options
| Venting Type | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric | Relies on natural convection; vent gases via chimney or flue | Most homes; avoid in areas with high wind |
| Power Venting | Uses fan or blower to vent gases; allows horizontal installation | Homes needing flexible installation options |
| Direct Venting | Sealed system; uses intake/exhaust pipes for combustion and venting | Townhomes or buildings without vertical venting |
The Logical Solution
If back-drafting truly happens, then don’t freak out. Calmly improve the ventilation by running an exhaust fan nearby or opening the window. Then, contact a professional and skilled HVAC technician to check on your heater and perform a repair. He/she may have to replace any missing vent cap, install a (power) vent, or correct the setup of the heater’s ventilation.
Conclusion
In the end, if you ever suspect your water heater is somewhat problematic, you must have it checked immediately. You won’t have to worry about gas water heater exhaust being dangerous. You have taken care of your heater correctly.
