3 -
Water heater explosion probe completed
Investigations into an electric water heater explosion which happened in a Kennedy Town domestic flat on October 23 this year have been completed.
The investigations were jointly conducted by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and the Water Supplies Department.
A Government spokesman said today (Thursday) that the electric water heater involved was found to be one of the non-pressure free-outlet type.
Findings of the investigations revealed that the explosion was likely to be caused by the simultaneous occurrence of several factors, said the spokesman.
"The vent path of the heater was blocked by unauthorised installation of a valve at the combined hot and cold water outlet. This had caused accumulation of overheated steam and generated pressure inside the heater, which led to the explosion.
"In addition, the temperature control device of the heater was out of order and the heater was not switched off after use," he said.
The spokesman advised members of the public that although such accidents rarely happened, precautionary measures should be taken when using electric water heaters.
"Unauthorised installation of a stop valve at the combined cold and hot water outlet of a non-pressure free-outlet type is dangerous and contravenes the Waterworks Regulations.
"Licensed plumbers and registered electrical contractors and workers should be employed for plumbing and electrical works.
"Routine inspection and maintenance of the heaters should be carried out by experienced workers, and power supply should always be switched off after use," he said.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.