Types of water heaters
Before you learn how to install a hot water heater, it is essential to know about the types. Common types of water heaters include gas, electric, and tankless. Since the energy sources of these water heaters differ, their installation requirements vary accordingly.
For gas water heaters, the energy source is natural gas or propane. And the electrical models use electricity as their power source. Tankless water heaters eliminate the hassle of a storage tank and heat water on demand.
For a comfortable home, it is essential to know the installation requirements of these water heaters.
How to install a gas water heater?
Installing gas water heaters can enhance the efficiency of your space. The installation process involves connecting the gas line, safeguarding the water supply lines, and setting up the venting system.
To set up a gas water heater, you need to turn off the gas line and drain the old unit. Once the water is out of the system, you can position the new unit. As you do that, connect it with water and gas lines. After completing the process, you can connect the exhaust vent, fill the tank, and check for gas leaks.
How to install an electric water heater?
An electric water heater installation is comparatively a straightforward process. As electricity is the main power source for these heaters, the installation relies primarily on proper plumbing and electrical layouts. The primary step in installing these types of water heaters is to shut off the electricity and water to the old unit.
Like gas water heaters, you have to drain the old unit and remove it. Position the new heater and connect it to the water lines. Also, you have to connect it with the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve. Once the water connections are secure, turn on the power and link the electrical wiring.
How to install a tankless water heater?
The compact design and on-demand water facilities require attention to detail for installing a tankless water heater. Since they heat water only when needed, tankless water heaters are among the most energy-efficient options. They run on either gas or electricity.
For the gas models, ensure they have proper ventilation and easy access to water. Connect the hot and cold water inlets and outlet valves. Once it is done, switch on the water supply and test for leaks.
When it comes to electrical models, linking the cold-water inlets and outlet valves is essential. After that, a dedicated circuit would ensure hot water runs through the outlet valves. Once the circuit starts working, test the tankless heater to see if hot water is coming out.
What Are the Precautions You Need Before Installation?
Water heaters are common electrical appliances that use water, electricity, and gas, and operate at high temperatures. Since it incorporates such crucial elements, the chances of mishaps can be too high.
For that reason, it is essential to take the necessary precautions before installing a water heater. The following are the safety measures that one should follow:
- Turn off the main water supply and gas/electrical lines of the old unit to prevent flooding or electric shock.
- Remove obstacles from the installation area to create space for installing the water heater system.
- Inspect the gas, electricity, and water lines for any warning signs, such as leaks or frayed wires. Once you find any disputes, fix them before setting up the new unit.
- Ensure your installation plan complies with local building codes. This will validate that the installation is safe for use.
- Choose a space for a water heater that has proper ventilation. It is paramount that gas heaters expel gases seamlessly.
Step-by-Step Guide on Installing a Water Heater
The lack of hot water or persistent leaks can prompt you to replace your old water heater. Moreover, when it reaches 10 years old, it’s time to replace your home’s water heater.
Under all these circumstances, you must be wondering how to install an electric water heater. The process is simple, given that you are a pro at handyman services. Nevertheless, we’re providing you with a guide on water heater installation.
- Step 1: Remove the old water heater and make room for the new one. To do that, you need to cut off the power source. For instance, turn off the electrical connection at the circuit breaker for electric water heaters. To be more cautious, check the voltage with a circuit tester. And for gas heaters, switch off the gas supply.
- Step 2: Run the water faucet to empty the water. When the water turns cold, shut off the water heater supply. The water supply valve is located at the top of the heating system. After locating the valve, connect it to the garden hose to drain out the excess water.
- Step 3: Once the draining is complete, turn off the water heater supply lines. It includes both hot and cold water lines. With a pipe cutter, it is easy to cut off all the lines.
- Step 4: After performing all these steps, it’s time to remove the old water heater from its place. You can either do it yourself using a dolly or call for professional help to carry the heavy tank out of its way.
- Step 5: Clean the water pipe threads before connecting the water lines. Once done, carefully link the hot and cold water pipes. Ensure to leave a little space between the pipes for smooth water flow.
- Step 6: For the gas heaters, installing a vent hood above the new water heater is essential. To secure the hood, you need sheet metal screws. Once the vent hood is installed, proceed to the vent piping installation.
- Step 7: Double-check for the gas line. Ensure to turn it off and remove the sticker from the gas valve. It is the spot where the water supply connects with the gas line. Using wrenches, link the gas control valve to the gas hose. Make sure to secure the connection effectively.
- Step 8: Slowly turn on the gas supply and use the leak detection mechanism to check for gas leaks.
- Step 9: To turn on the water heater, push the ignite button. When you see the light blinking, it indicates that the heater is ready for use.
- Step 10: For electric water heaters, once the water drains completely, connect the new one to the wiring. To do that, open the junction box cover, twist the wires and connectors, and put the cover back. After that, you can turn on the power.
- Step 11: For both gas and electric water heaters, check the discharge pipe. If water drips, it indicates high pressure, and you need to adjust it.
- Step 12: After installing gas/electric water heaters, you may notice reduced water flow. It occurs due to sediment deposition around the faucet. If that’s the case, remove the aerator and flush the sediment.
The guide mentioned above covers both installation processes for gas and electric heaters. As you go through the guide, you can see that the steps are almost the same. As for gas units, additional venting connections are required, unlike electrical water heaters.
For additional connections, installing gas water heaters is more expensive than installing electrical water heaters. Nevertheless, both are efficient in offering hot water solutions at any premise.
Post-Installation Tips
Once you know how to install a water heater and have successfully done so, it’s time to focus on its safety and maintenance. That way, you can improve the water heater’s efficiency. By following some post-installation tips, you can ensure a well-functioning water heater system.
These post-installation tips are as follows:
- Before turning on the gas/electric supply, fill the water tank. That way, you can avoid dry firing or gas leaking out of the system.
- Thoroughly check all connections, including water lines and valves. On identifying any loose fitting, it’s necessary to tighten it.
- Ensure the thermostat is set at a moderate temperature (120°F). It helps to reduce scalding issues and improve energy efficiency.
- Check whether the circuit breaker is carefully connected to the power supply.
- Test the relief valve to ensure it’s working properly.
- Use high-quality pipe insulation to wrap the hot and cold water pipes to reduce heat loss.
- To maintain smooth water flow, flush the tank annually and reduce sediment buildup.
Professional vs DIY
Carefully installing a water heater can increase its efficiency for your household. The widely popular methods of water heater installation include professional and DIY solutions.
While the professionals bring safety and warranty to the installation process, DIY can save on labor costs. Let’s understand the professional vs. DIY comparison for water heater installation based on the following factors:
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Safety and compliance
Professional installation services or handyman services are aware of the plumbing and safety codes. As a result, they can avoid dangerous situations like explosions or leaks. On the contrary, if you install the water heater yourself, you may not be aware of safety codes, which can lead to explosive situations.
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Expertise and efficiency
Hiring a handyman can be beneficial for the installation process. But what does a handyman do? They provide thorough expertise in installing a water heater. From removing the old water heater to positioning the new one and verifying its components, they do it all. Their services ensure the smooth functioning of the water heater system.
DIY solutions, however, may not provide a high level of expertise. You have to read the instruction manual to understand the process and follow the guide step by step.
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Warranty Protection
Most professional handyman services do not void the manufacturer’s warranty. As they ensure the warrant, you don’t have to worry about the damage to the water heaters. However, when you try to install the water heater yourself and it shows a dispute, it becomes difficult to replace it.
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Time savings
Handyman services have years of experience installing and replacing appliances. Hence, they are seasoned in promptly installing water heaters, whether electrical or gas. Typically, it takes 2-4 hours to install a new water heater.
On the other hand, a layman may take longer not just to replace but also to install a water heater. Since you’re not seasoned with removing the old heater and positioning the new one, the process can be extremely complex for you.
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Cost savings
Hiring handyman services requires you to spend a substantial amount of money. However, the expertise they bring, along with a better understanding of safety codes, can improve the efficiency of the water heaters. With DIY efforts, you can save on labor costs. But since you’re not thorough with components and safety codes, it can pose significant challenges, such as dry firing and gas leaks.
Under all such circumstances, professionals are a better fit for water heater installation than DIY solutions. To ensure proper installation that improves the efficiency of the hot water supply, it is always recommended to rely on professional services.
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Frequently Asked Question
How to install a water tank at home?
Installing a water tank at home involves complying with plumbing and building codes. Once it is complete, the tank base must be prepared. After that, carefully position the tank and connect the inlet and outlet pipes for water distribution. The next step would be to install an overflow system to prevent water from overflowing. Once all these features are connected, it’s time to set up and test the pump.
Can anyone install a water heater?
Yes, if you are experienced in installation and maintenance, installing a water heater may not be rocket science. However, it is always advisable to leave it to the experts, and in this case, it is the handyman services. Since water heater installation requires proper plumbing and gas lines, it is better to let the professionals handle the matter.
How to replace a water heater?
Replacing a water heater involves turning off the water supply and draining the tank. After the water is completely drained, you can replace it with a new tank. Ensure that you’re familiar with the plumbing process. Otherwise, taking professional help is always feasible.
What is the cost of water heater installation?
The average cost of traditional water heater replacement is $1,950. However, the typical cost of water heater installation is between $1,800 and $4,000. The cost range varies depending on tank type, code upgrades, and labor costs.
Is it safe to install a water heater yourself?
For most homeowners, installing water heaters poses no significant threat. However, when a person lacks knowledge and skills in plumbing or in the legal codes governing safety measures, it can pose challenges.
How to install a water heater breaker?
To install a water heater breaker, switching off the main power is paramount. Double-check the connection with a voltage tester. After confirming the main power is off, install the double-pole breaker into the panel. Once it’s done, link the hot wires and ground wire to the respective terminals. Finally, reconnect the neutral wire to its original location and secure all connections.
