Can a faulty water heater electrocute you?

Question

..while your taking a shower? I have always wondered about this.

Answer 1

Absolutely not if you have a gas water heater. If you have a electric water heater, I'd still not worry about that since the water pipes are well grounded and if it shorts to the hot wire, it will trip your circuit breaker. Plus all codes for installation of electric water heater has safety device to prevent electrocution for users.

Answer 2

probly not it would trip the breaker first?

Answer 3

Some old home builders used plumbing as a ground or neutral, not realizing that it's not a real ground source.  People often get shocked because of this.  If your house is old, you might need to get it re-wired and install a real ground.

And yes I have heard of people getting shocked in the shower and tub.