Tank Water Heaters & Safety

Keep your home's tank water heater safe with these tips.

For over 73 years, State has developed a strong tradition of innovative water heaters that operate safely within your home or business. Even if your water heater isn't top of mind most of the time, making sure you are familiar with safety measures during use and installation is crucial. State's water heaters are tested for toughness and durability and engineered with innovative features that can detect problems before they occur. Look below for a complete guide to the features and safety measures that State incorporates into all tank water heaters.

How We Keep Your Water Heater Safe

Three example tank water heaters side-by-side.

Venting

Gas water heaters create exhaust, and proper venting is required to keep the exhaust from collecting in a home. Different types of venting are designed to fit certain needs, so we recommend that you consult a professional to make a recommendation before installation. Learn more about different gas water heater vent configurations.

Glass-Lined Tank

Pairing innovation with a rich history in dependable water heating technology, over 70 years ago State began to manufacture glass-lined tanks for all of their tank water heaters. This lining keeps heat inside the tank and protects the steel from corrosion, which can cause leaks and other damage.

Anode Rod

An anode rod, designed to protect the water heater's tank and ensure it lasts, is included in all State glass-lined tank water heaters. The anode rod naturally creates a low resistance electrical current in the water heater due to the potential difference between the anode metal and the steel tank. This provides cathodic protection to control corrosion. The anode rods State builds into all glass-lined tank water heaters help protect the lining and tank from water's corrosive tendencies. Check out State's PRODUCT PRESERVERS POWERED ANODE SYSTEM.

Energy Cut Off (ECO)

State water heaters protect against overheating your water with a cut off switch. The controls on the water heater keep your water at your desired temperature (set point) through a differential temperature range. Should the temperature go far beyond the differential range, the cut off switch will activate to keep your home safe. If you experience overheating, please consult a professional plumbing contractor for assistance.

Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve

While it is unlikely, your water temperature may exceed the nominal temperature or reach pressure levels that are considerably higher than nominal. In those cases, the T&P valve can release excess pressure and hot water. As water temperature increases the water expands, increasing the pressure inside the water heater. An expansion tank (hyperlink) can be used to help relieve these pressure changes. If one is not used the expanded water will increase the pressure in the tank, having nowhere to go. If you experience a leaking T&P valve, we recommend that you reach out to a professional plumbing contractor. This may indicate an unsafe temperature or pressure situation.

FVIR (Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant)

Gasoline or other flammable materials, including vapors and liquids, should not be stored or used near a water heater or any other appliance. State's residential gas water heaters comply with the ANSI Standard (ANSI Z21.10.1-current edition) regarding the accidental or unintended ignition of flammable vapors, such as those emitted by gasoline. If you have any questions, we recommend consulting a licensed plumber or contractor

Additional Reading

State water heaters come in a large range of sizes. Discover the factors to consider when making your decisions.

Learn more about water heater sizingkeyboard_arrow_right

How can the quality of your water affect your water heater? Get tips and more information on water hardness, why it matters, and how to solve it.

Learn how water quality affects water heaterskeyboard_arrow_right

Gas water heaters require venting upon installation. Depending on your home, there are many different options.

Learn about vent configurationskeyboard_arrow_right
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Contractor Resources

  • Screwdriver and wrench icon.

    Installation Guide

    Download our gas tank water heater installation instructions.

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