Houston Water Heater Explosion Attorney
Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, but how much attention do you give it on a regular basis? The scary reality is that a water heater explosion is like having an explosive go off in your home, and it can cause significant property damage, severe injuries, and even deaths. Texas residents need to know how to spot the warning signs of a dangerous water heater. The water heater explosion attorneys at Ben Bronston & Associates can help with legal options after an explosion.

Why Do Water Heaters Explode?
Faulty or negligent installations are the most common reasons for a water heater to explode. The technician who installs a water heater must ensure it performs as intended. An electrical water heater may experience a short due to water corrosion; gas-powered water heaters can experience problems with the gas lines. These both pose significant explosion risks. Improper installation can leave a water heater vulnerable to these issues and increase the risk of explosion.

Pressure is another cause of water-heater explosions. The pressure release valve, typically located on the top or side of the unit, opens when the pressure inside the heater is too great. The valve allows water and steam to escape, lowering the internal pressure inside the tank. If your pressure control valve is leaking significantly, this could indicate an excessive buildup of pressure inside the tank.

Here are 4 signs that tell you that your water heater is about to explode.

Damages in Water Heater Explosion Cases

If a water heater explodes due to a faulty installation, injured parties can file personal injury lawsuits against whoever installed the tank. The plaintiff would need to prove the defendant failed to install the water heater correctly or was otherwise negligent, directly resulting in the plaintiff’s injuries. If a water heater is defective and causes an explosion, the affected parties would pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer. In this situation, the plaintiff must simply prove the product in question was defective and the defect caused the plaintiff’s damages.

The injuries and property damage from a water heater explosion can be catastrophic and deadly. In most homes, the water heater is on the lowest level of the house in a basement or sub-basement. If the heater explodes, it could easily damage the surrounding parts of the home and may even cause part of the house to collapse. Property damages are some of the most significant claimed damages in water-heater explosion cases.

Anyone caught in the blast could suffer serious injuries, including broken bones and burns. An explosion can also damage a person’s sight and hearing and cause traumatic brain injuries. The force of an explosion can cause victims to suffer periods of unconsciousness that can lead to neurological problems. A leaky water heater also can release carbon monoxide into a home, causing significant health problems for the occupants.

Protecting Your Rights in Houston

If you notice any warning signs of a water heater explosion, shut the heater off and contact a licensed plumber immediately to take a look. If you or a loved one has recently suffered injuries and other damages due to the explosion of a faulty water heater, it’s vital to work quickly to maximize your chances of recovering your losses. An experienced Houston water heater explosion lawyer can make a difference in your situation and help you determine whether a personal injury lawsuit or product liability claim best fits your case.

The team at Ben Bronston & Associates has experience with water heater explosion cases in Texas. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. We will review the details of your case and determine your options for legal recourse.