WATER HEATER ELECTROCUTION PREVENTION

There are several steps that can be taken to avoid grief of losing loved ones over the usage of electric water heaters which are commonly designed to be powered by domestic mains voltage.

As we all know that electricity potential (dc or ac) can deliver lethal electrocution to people by as little as 50Volts. Therefore, it is necessary to examine and diligently conduct self test on electric water heater.

1st: Before buying any instant water heater (which means the water is heat up when streams of water passing through heating coils), make sure it has Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) installed. ELCB is basically a tripping device that could potentially save people life by its operating principles. Whenever faults occur on hot wire (or technically know as live wire), ELCB is able to open up circuits instantly, thus preventing a secondary path for live current to pass through human body and ensuing death.

2nd: Test the functions of ELCB before starting to use water heater. Usually, there will be a TEST button on the main body of water heater. After starting the water heater (but don't get contact with the hot water coming out from it!), push the ELCB TEST button. If the ELCB is functioning, the water heater should stop operating immediately. If not, please return the potential killer to vendor (for your life sake).

If someone is still paranoid after the water heater passes ELCB test, he can always install another ELCB at the incoming mains for water heater. (Before attempting to do this, please conform with local Electricity Regulations or employ certified electrician for professional advice). Don't attempt to repair ELCB if you do not know what you are doing! 30mA tripping current can be commercially found in any electrical store specialising in electrical goods supply.

Thank you for reading this blog.

Disclaimer: Any informations presented here can only serve as reference to personal experience of another individual. Prudent steps should be taken prior to applying information in this blog. All injuries/deaths/losses of property will not be linked to this blog.