- Brown water coming out of a hot water faucet could mean that the tank liner has ruptured.
- The pressure relief valve can leak because of too much pressure in the tank.
- Keeping the temperature above 125 degrees can cause damage.
- A thermal expansion tank will allow pressure to build up keeping it from damaging the tank.
- Installing a water and gas safety valve will shut down the water heater when it senses a problem.
SOURCE:http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/plumbing/water-heater-maintenance-tips
