🚨 A REAL-LIFE CLOSE CALL — GAS WATER HEATER 🚨Fernandina Beach, FL

🚨 A REAL-LIFE CLOSE CALL — PLEASE READ 🚨

On 03/25/2026 at 7:56 AM, we received a call from a concerned homeowner who reported smelling gas in their garage. They had a tank Rheem water heater (less than a year old) and feared something wasn’t right.

We’re incredibly grateful they trusted that instinct and called.

When our technician arrived at 10:12 am, what he discovered was nothing short of a nightmare:

❌ A natural gas water heater installed on a propane system

❌ Improper 3” PVC venting being used improper venting

❌ Burnt CPVC piping

❌ Visible heat and gas staining on the ceiling

This wasn’t just “installed incorrectly.”

This was a serious hazard — a situation that could have resulted in carbon monoxide poisoning, fire, or worse.

The most chilling part?

The homeowner said during their home inspection they pointed out, “that pipe doesn’t look quite right,” and were told:

👉 “It’s good for now, but you may have to address it later.”

“Later” could have been too late.

After checking records, we also found no permit has been pulled on this property since it was built in 2002, and this heater was installed in January. The homeowners have been there for a week!

Let that sink in.

⚠️ A family could have lost their lives because someone chose to cut corners.

This is exactly why we urge every homeowner:

✔️ DEMAND licensed contractors

✔️ VERIFY credentials through proper state websites

✔️ ALWAYS pull permits for major work

✔️ Don’t rely on assumptions — double-check everything

✔️ Read reviews, ask questions, and trust your gut

This is why Professionals pull permits. Permits aren’t expensive and can provide you with peace of mind.

Please take a moment to verify licenses properly:

👉 www.myfloridalicense.com

👉 https://dos.fl.gov/sunbiz/search/

(And know the difference — having a business registered does NOT mean someone is licensed to perform the work.)

We see situations like this more often than we should. It’s heartbreaking—and preventable.

Your home should be your safe place. Don’t leave that safety in the hands of someone unqualified.

If something doesn’t look, smell, or feel right…

CALL. It could save your life.

If you are buying a home or have lived there for a while or even thinking of moving, we do Plumbing Inspections!

#HomeSafety #LicensedProfessionals #ProtectYourFamily #PlumbingSafe #GasWaterHeaters #Inspections #HomeInspections #WaterHeaters #Propane #NaturalGas

Service provided: Water Heater Repair & Replacement

Budget: $49 - $3500

Location: Fernandina Beach, FL