Electric and Gas Water Heater Problems in Minnesota Homes
- northwayhomeinspec
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 27
Water heaters—whether electric or gas—play a critical role in a home’s functionality and comfort. However, they’re often overlooked until there’s a problem. During home inspections in Central Minnesota, it’s not uncommon to find several safety and installation defects with water heaters that could lead to costly repairs, reduced efficiency, or safety hazards.
Electric Water Heater Defects
One of the more frequent issues with electric water heaters is exposed wiring without protective sheathing. This can be a serious electrical hazard and is typically a result of improper installation or DIY repairs. Another common defect is the absence of a disconnect switch within six feet of the unit. Electrical codes require this switch to quickly and safely shut off power to the water heater during maintenance or emergencies.
Gas Water Heater Defects
With gas water heaters, one of the more overlooked issues is the absence of a sediment trap on the gas line. This small but essential feature helps prevent debris from entering the gas valve and burner, which can cause malfunction or reduce efficiency.
Other red flags include burn or scorch marks around the combustion chamber or exterior, which may indicate improper combustion or backdrafting. Additionally, improperly installed or obstructed exhaust vents can pose serious carbon monoxide risks. The venting system must allow combustion gases to safely exit the home and meet clearance requirements from combustible materials.
Common Defects
A leaking water heater is one of the most obvious but concerning defects. Leaks may come from the tank itself, plumbing connections, the TPR valve, or the drain valve. Even small leaks can cause water damage to surrounding materials, promote mold growth, and indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacement is often the most practical solution when tank leakage is confirmed.
Improper or missing valves on water supply lines is also a concern. Water heaters should have shut-off valves installed to allow for servicing or replacement without affecting the entire home’s water supply.
The temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve is a critical safety feature designed to prevent the tank from exploding if pressure or temperature gets too high. Unfortunately, we often see discharge pipes that are too short, not made from proper materials (such as using flexible hoses or PVC), or even capped or blocked, which defeats the entire purpose of the valve. According to current safety standards, the TPR discharge pipe should terminate no more than 6 inches from the floor and be made of approved materials such as copper or CPVC.
Water heater defects may seem minor at a glance, but they can lead to larger problems—ranging from property damage to safety risks. That’s why a thorough inspection is critical, especially for buyers and homeowners who may not realize what to look for.
At Northway Home Inspection, we carefully examine water heaters for both electrical and plumbing safety. If you're buying a home in Central Minnesota, from St. Cloud to Little Falls to Princeton, make sure your inspection includes a detailed evaluation of these often-overlooked systems.
