Public Education on Possible Safety Issues for Water Heaters Connected by Three-pin Plugs

90 Mr Leon Perera asked the Minister for National Development what educational or other measures will be taken by HDB to address possible safety issues in relation to water heaters connected by three-pin plugs.

Mr Lawrence Wong: Water heaters should be connected to a 20 ampere socket switch instead of a normal 3-pin socket, which can only support currents of 13 amperes. The installation of water heaters must be done by an electrical worker licensed by the Energy Market Authority (EMA).

The Government will do its part to educate residents on the proper installation of water heaters. Currently, HDB's Home Improvement Programme (HIP) contractors who find water heaters incorrectly installed during the course of their work will advise the residents to address the issue. HDB will also work with EMA on a public awareness campaign to remind all residents of the importance of the safe installation of water heaters.