The Best Way To Install A Water Heater

Key Takeaways:

• Water heater installation is not as difficult as you may think. However, it is best to consider plumbing professionals to do the job for you to avoid any potential hazards.
• If you are doing a DIY, consider the size of the water heater, the type of water heater, the location, and the tools and materials you will need.
• Water heater installation is a seven-step process that requires some technical skills.
• For more details, you can contact Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer. We also offer free quotes on exceptional water heater installation services.

The fall is coming sooner than we imagined, and a water heater will become a must in a few weeks. If you’ve been maintaining your water heater from all the tank issues, then you are good to go for the season. However, if you’re on for a new water heater installation and think you can do it on your own, you need to think over a few things.

Installing a water heater might not seem difficult. But it’s pretty much a herculean task if you don’t know what you are doing!

This blog post by Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer will discuss the best way to install your water heater– whether you DIY or call plumbing professionals. We’ll go over the fundamental of water heater installation and some tips and tricks to make the process easier for you.

DIY or Plumbing Professionals:

Like most people, installing your water heater probably seems a bit daunting. After all, a lot can go wrong if you don’t know what you’re doing. Water heaters are expensive, and if you mess up the installation, you could end up causing serious damage to your home- not to mention voiding the warranty on your new water heater.

It is always great to leave the installation of water heaters to experts. However, we realize that there are situations when you are forced to install the water heater yourself due to unforeseen circumstances. 

Things to consider:

Size of the water heater: 

Your requirements and consumption patterns will determine the size or capacity of your water heater. For instance, if many family members use hot water at various times throughout the day, you will need a larger tank than if everyone uses hot water at the same times every day or week. 

Location of the water heater: 

This is important for two reasons. The first reason is that you must ensure the water heater is installed in an area where it can be easily accessible for maintenance and repairs. The second reason is that the location of the water heater will affect how well it works. For instance, if you live in a chilly or cold place, you will want to ensure the water heater is installed properly so that it won’t be exposed to cold air.

Type of water heater: 

Water heaters come in two types: electric and gas. Although installing a gas water heater is more costly, they are often more efficient than electric water heaters. An electric water heater can be a better choice if you live in a place where natural gas is not accessible or if you don’t want to deal with the inconvenience of installing a gas connection.

Cost:

The size, style, and type of water heater you select, along with other factors, will influence the installation cost. It’s also vital to think about whether you want to install the water heater yourself or whether you want to pay someone to do it for you. 

How to Install A Water Heater Like A Pro, Even If You’re Not One Yourself?

If you’re installing a water heater, follow these steps:

Step 01: Turn off the power to the circuit breaker: Use a circuit tester to ensure that the power is off. Mark the wire connections with tape before cutting the wires.

Step 02: Remove the water heater’s access panels: Unscrew and remove the upper and lower access panels.

Step 03: Disconnect the water lines: The vent pipe has to be unscrewed from the vent hood and moved to the side. After that, use a tube cutter or a wrench to cut the hot and cold water pipes. Move the outdated water heater aside. Prepare a bucket to collect any water that may leak.

Step 04: Disconnect the gas line: Unscrew the union nut that connects the gas line to the water heater. If you don’t have a union, cut the copper pipe with a tubing cutter. Remove any excess pipe from the water heater using a hacksaw.

Step 05: Install the new water heater: Position it and connect it to the water supply. If you’re using a gas water heater, connect the gas line.

Step 06: Turn on the water and gas: Open the shut-off valves and turn on the water at the cold water inlet. For a gas water heater, open the shut-off valve and turn on the power at the breaker box.

Step 07: Test for leaks: Test all connections for leaks. Once the water heater is filled, turn on the power and let the water heater run for about an hour to heat the water.

If you’re uncomfortable working with gas or water lines, you should leave the water heater installation to a plumbing professional.

Why Hire A Professional Installer?

Although water installation could appear to be a simple operation, several safety factors must be considered to guarantee a safe and effective installation. These consist of:

• ensuring that the gas line is built and sized appropriately
• ensuring that the venting system is fitted and vented properly
• the water heater is installed in compliance with local building regulations
• ensuring that every connection is reliable and secure

Without taking these safety precautions into account, installing a water heater might lead to significant harm or even death. If something went wrong during the installation that resulted in serious damage to your home or personal harm, the DIY installation would not be covered by insurance, and the guarantee would not cover repairs.

Therefore, we recommend leaving the installation of water heaters to qualified and insured specialists. They’ll not only guarantee a secure and effective installation, but they’ll also be able to provide you with insightful guidance on picking the best water heater for your house.

Ending Note:

Now that you know how to install a water heater, you can decide whether to DIY or leave it to the plumbing professionals. Just remember: when in doubt, hire a pro! Trying to save a few bucks by going the DIY route might not be worth it in the long run. 

Call Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer, serving Wilmette, immediately if you require water heater installation. We are more than delighted to assist you in selecting and installing the ideal water heater for your residence from our team of qualified experts.

Get an estimate today!

Posted in Bill's Plumbing & Sewer Blog | Comments Off on The Best Way To Install A Water Heater