What must gas water heaters do in order to be safe?

For gas water heaters to operate safely, they must be properly vented. Venting is crucial because it allows the dangerous combustion gases produced during the heating process to escape safely outside the building. If a gas water heater is not vented correctly, these gases, particularly carbon monoxide, can build up indoors, leading to hazardous situations such as poisoning or even explosions. Proper venting ensures that the heater functions efficiently and adheres to safety codes, significantly reducing the risk associated with gas water heaters.

While proper insulation, connection to a thermostat, and regular testing are important elements in maintaining a water heater, they do not directly address the safety risks associated with the combustion process in gas water heaters. Therefore, proper venting stands out as a critical safety requirement to prevent the serious dangers that can arise from improper gas combustion.