## How to Fix Backdrafting Water Heater
### Introduction
Backdrafting is a condition in which exhaust gases from a water heater are drawn back into the home instead of being vented outside. This can be a dangerous situation, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If you think your water heater is backdrafting, it is important to take steps to fix the problem immediately.
### Symptoms of Backdrafting
There are several signs that may indicate your water heater is backdrafting, including:
– Soot or stains around the water heater exhaust vent. This is a sign that exhaust gases are escaping from the vent and entering the home.
– A burning smell. This is another sign that exhaust gases are entering the home.
– Headaches, nausea, or dizziness. These are all symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be caused by backdrafting.
– A pilot light that frequently goes out. This can be a sign that the exhaust gases are not being properly vented and are causing the pilot light to extinguish.
### Causes of Backdrafting
There are several factors that can contribute to backdrafting, including:
– Negative pressure in the home. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as an open fireplace, a clothes dryer that is venting into the home, or a kitchen exhaust fan that is drawing air out of the home.
– A blocked or obstructed exhaust vent. This can prevent the exhaust gases from escaping properly.
– A water heater that is too powerful for the size of the home. This can create too much exhaust gas for the vent to handle.
– A water heater that is not properly installed. This can allow exhaust gases to leak into the home.
### How to Fix Backdrafting
If you think your water heater is backdrafting, it is important to take steps to fix the problem immediately. Here are a few things you can do:
– Check the exhaust vent. Make sure that it is clear of any obstructions, such as leaves, debris, or snow.
– Increase the ventilation in the home. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter the home.
– Turn off any appliances that are venting into the home. This includes clothes dryers and kitchen exhaust fans.
– Call a qualified technician. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, call a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
### Preventing Backdrafting
There are several things you can do to prevent backdrafting, including:
– Install a backdraft damper. This is a device that prevents exhaust gases from being drawn back into the home.
– Ensure that the exhaust vent is properly sized. The vent should be large enough to handle the volume of exhaust gas produced by the water heater.
– Keep the exhaust vent clear of obstructions. This includes leaves, debris, and snow.
– Avoid using appliances that vent into the home. This includes clothes dryers and kitchen exhaust fans.
– Have your water heater inspected and serviced regularly. This will help to ensure that the water heater is operating properly and that the exhaust vent is clear of obstructions.
### Conclusion
Backdrafting is a serious problem that can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If you think your water heater is backdrafting, it is important to take steps to fix the problem immediately. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent backdrafting and keep your home safe.