Natural gas water heaters emit carbon monoxide gases from the fuel that is used to power them. Every year, there is an average of 430 deaths reported in the United States due to carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. For the health and safety of people that occupy the home, it is important to ensure that all carbon monoxide fumes are vented outdoors.
Chimney Vented Hot Water Heating Systems
The traditional model of hot water heating systems utilize a chimney to pipe out carbon monoxide gases. This is an ideal setup for homes in which a chimney is already present or a home that is currently being constructed. However, if you are planning on placing a natural or propane gas hot water heater in an area of the home that does not have a chimney access, this can be a costly model of hot water heater to install.
To ensure that the gases which are vented out from the hot water heater do not build up, regular cleaning of the chimney is recommended. Over time, debris gathers along the sides of the chimney and can cause blockages. When purchasing an older home, this is one maintenance practice which should always be performed for the well-being of all people residing in the building.
Power Venting Is a New and Welcome Concept
With the changes that have taken place in the plumbing industry, Loomis plumbing contractors like PRO Hot Water Service are able to provide you with power vented hot water heaters. These water heating systems can be vented out through walls instead of requiring a chimney access for gases emitted. Plumbers Loomis residents entrust with their power vented hot water heater installation simply prepare an exit point from the water heater and install a special grade piping system for gas release.
Power vented hot water heaters do cost a little more than the traditional chimney vented models. However, the cost saved from installing and maintaining the chimney can add up rather quickly. It should be noted that all Loomis plumbing experts do recommend that the power vented hot water heater models be maintained regularly to ensure that there the pipes are clean and the appliance itself is functioning properly. This will save on expensive emergency plumbing services and provide an extended life for the power vented hot water system that you depend on.
Sources
How to Install a Power-Vented Water Heater, The Family Handyman
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 24 January 2014
