How to Keep Hot Water Heaters From Catching on Fire

Set your hot water heater's temperature below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Above that temperature may cause the heater to overheat and catch on fire.

Flush out hot water through the drain valve once per year to reduce the build-up of sediment in your tank. Turn off the heater's electricity. Attach a garden hose to the valve and use the pump to drain water into a bucket. Fill the heater with water. Repeat the process until there is no more sediment in the bucket. Disconnect the hose and pump, and turn the electricity back on to resume use.

Move any flammable or combustible material away from the hot water heater.

Test the safety release valve once per year by following your heater's instruction manual.

Schedule an annual inspection by a hot water heater expert.