25 Jul 2024

Storage Water Heater Burnt Out: Rheem EHG-40 Water Heater Replacement to Rheem EHG-40 at A Landed House at Tavistock Avenue on 13 Jun 2024

After discovering that the Rheem storage water heater had burned, the customer contacted Homeone to investigate the cause of this serious issue and find a solution. Our technician promptly conducted a site assessment to determine the existing conditions that led to the burning. Unfortunately, the damaged parts made it impossible to identify the exact cause. The burn was confined to the storage water heater, prompting a thorough inspection of the electrical connections and a megger test to ensure there were no electrical faults. We found that the wiring, switch, and breaker were all correctly sized and installed.

Possible Causes of The Storage Water Heater Burnt out:

Electrical Issues:

Loose Connections: Loose or corroded electrical connections can cause arcing, which leads to heat buildup and potential burning.
Overvoltage: Exposure to a voltage higher than the heater's rating can cause overheating and damage to electrical components.
Poor Wiring: Incorrect or substandard wiring can result in excessive resistance, overheating, and burning.

Component Failure:

Heating Element Failure: A malfunctioning heating element can overheat, particularly if it is covered in sediment or has developed an internal short.
Thermostat Malfunction: A faulty thermostat may fail to regulate the temperature properly, causing the heating element to remain on for extended periods, leading to overheating.

Water Quality and Corrosion:

Corrosive Water: Water with high mineral content or impurities can accelerate the corrosion of metal components, leading to electrical shorts and overheating.
Leaks and Moisture: Water leaks around the heating element or thermostat can cause electrical shorts or arcing, leading to burning or overheating.

After reviewing the report from our licensed technician, Homeone's office team advised the customer to replace the burned heater with the same model, the Rheem EHG-40 storage water heater. Additionally, we recommended replacing the existing piping, as it had been damaged by the burn. This replacement will ensure that the system functions safely and efficiently.

Project location
Tavistock Avenue
Property type
Landed

Before

After

The final result

Table of Contents

Storage Water Heater Burnt Out: Rheem EHG-40 Water Heater Replacement

Old storage water heater: – Rheem EHG-40 Water Heater

New storage water heater: – Rheem EHG-40 Water Heater

Rheem offers a wide range of water heaters, including electric, gas, hybrid heat pump, and tankless models, designed for energy efficiency and performance.
Their products are used in both residential and commercial applications, with features like glass lining for durability.
Rheem has been a leader in water heating since 1931, expanding globally after its 1925 founding by the Rheem brothers, originally producing steel drums.

This heater unit has met the following requirements for a water heater:

Storage Water Heater Burnt Out, Replacement Work Scope:

1. Site Assessment

Inspect the existing storage water heater and piping for damage.
Check all electrical wiring, ensuring it meets the required 2.5mm size, and perform a megger test to identify any electrical issues.

2. Supply of New Tank, Pipe, and Fittings

Provide and deliver a new storage water heater, along with necessary piping and fittings, to the site.

3. Removal of Old Tank

Safely disconnect and remove the old, burned water heater from the premises.

4. Pipe Works Partial Redo to Comply with PUB Regulations

Replace the damaged PPR piping with stainless steel pipes, adhering to PUB standards.
Note: Additional charges apply for piping beyond the included 1m in our standard package.

5. Electrical Work to Comply with LEW Regulations

Ensure all electrical connections and components comply with Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) regulations, including proper earthing and safe installation practices.

6. New Tank Installation

Install the new storage water heater securely, with all necessary fittings including a double check valve, pressure relief valve, and drain pipe, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

7. Testing and Commissioning

Test and commission the system, confirming hot water supply to the basin mixer and rain shower, and proper drainpipe flow.

6. Clean Up Before Leaving

Clean the work area thoroughly, removing all debris and ensuring the space is left tidy.

7. PUB Approval Letter

Handle all necessary paperwork and submission processes to secure the Public Utilities Board (PUB) approval letter, ensuring a hassle-free experience for the customer.

Regulatory Compliance:

The electric water heater as a whole unit (i.e. parts incorporated in the water heater itself such as heating element, pressure relief valve/temperature relief valve, water tank, etc. shall be tested in accordance with the following:

AS/NZS 4020:2018 Appendix K – Sample extraction procedure for use with water heating system. An accredited or non-accredited test report for Appendix K is acceptable provided that the test laboratory is accredited by Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC) to AS/NZS 4020:2018 Appendix H on Extraction of Metals, at the point of testing;
The samples extracted in accordance with Appendix K shall then be tested in accordance with AS/NZS 4020:2018 Appendix H – Extraction of metals (for metallic materials in contact with water). The maximum allowable concentrations of metals listed in Table 2 of AS/NZS 4020:2018 shall not exceed the limits specified by the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality.