How Hard Is It To Install A Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES

DIY Water Heater Installation

Time A busy day of work Complexity IntermediateCost$101–250

Introduction

When your water heater begins to leak, you must act quickly to have it repaired or replaced. We’ll teach you how to set up your own natural gas water heater in less than a day’s time. Even if you do not require a new water heater at this time, it is likely that you will require one within the next few years. Water heaters typically have a lifespan of seven to fifteen years. If yours is beginning to show signs of wear, this post is also for you. If you’re familiar with basic equipment and have a little expertise soldering copper, replacing a water heater shouldn’t be too tough.

Tools Required

Water and gas piping
Discharge pipe
Fittings
Pipe thread compound
Pressure relief valve
Solder. Ventilation pipe and connections
Pressure relief valve.

Getting Started Installing Your New Hot Water Tank

Water and gas piping; Discharge pipe; Fittings; Pipe thread compound; Pressure relief valve; Solder. Ventilation pipe and connections.

Water Heater Parts and Breakdown

Fire pipe, cold water shutoff valve, draft diverter, temperature and pressure relief valve, overflow pipe, hot water outlet, anticorrosion anode rod, dip tube, elements, insulation, drain valve, thermostat or control valve, burner, thermocouple, gas supply valve, and more.

When to get a new water heater

When the tank of your water heater leaks, your water heater is out of commission. An indication that your water heater needs to be replaced is a gradual drop beneath the unit, which commonly manifests itself as a trail of discolored water. This indicates that the steel tank has corroded through and will be unable to be repaired. Other symptoms, such as little or no hot water, are typically indicative of other water heater repair issues that may be resolved by you. If you notice a drop, make a plan to get the water heater replaced as soon as possible.

New water heaters are sent with detailed installation instructions as well as several cautions to ensure that the gas, electrical, and other connections are handled properly.
However, you should be aware that you will be dealing with natural gas, propane, or electricity, all of which are potentially harmful.
And, after you’re finished, get your work examined.
You should explain to your local plumbing inspector how you want to install your new connections, including the sorts of materials you intend to use.

Figure A: Gas Water Heater Details

Mr. Fix-It-Up-For-The-Family See the Additional Information section at the end of this article for instructions on how to print this image.

Figure B: Connections for Steel and Plastic Pipe

Mr. Fix-It-Up-For-Us. The Additional Information at the conclusion of this article provides instructions on how to print this image.

Project step-by-step (12)

Turn off the gas to the water heater by twisting the shutdown valve a quarter turn away from the water heater. When the handle is turned off, it should be at a straight angle to the pipe. Also, turn off the main water supply and drain the pipes by opening a tap on the lowest floor of the building. Step No. 2

Drain the water in the tank

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and use it to drain the water that has accumulated in the tank.

The water will be boiling hot, so proceed with caution! With a pair of wrenches, disconnect the gas line at the neighboring union and remove the pipe from the gas control valve with a pipe wrench to complete the task.

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Complete your do-it-yourself tasks like an expert! Become a subscriber to our newsletter! Do It Right the First Time, and Do It Yourself! Step number three.

Cut off the water lines

The vent pipe should be moved to the side once it has been unscrewed from the vent hood. After that, using a tube cutter, cut the hot and cold water lines. For galvanized pipe, remove the unions and, if you have them, remove the nuts on the flexible connections as well. Move the old water heater to the side of the room. Step number four.

Attach the relief valve

Teflon tape should be used to seal the threads of the new temperature and pressure relief valve (three turns). With a pipe wrench, tighten it inside the tank until it is completely sealed. Glue a copper discharge pipe to the wall (see Fig. A for routing details). Step number five.

Attach pipe assemblies

Solder fresh copper adapters to 6-in. lengths of 3/4-in. copper pipe and screw the assemblies into the hot water outlet and cold water inlet ports on the top of the tank’s tank’s tank’s tank. Make use of short, plastic-lined nipples to protect your pipes from galvanic corrosion, especially if you have hard water or if they are required by your local building standards. Step 6: Organize your thoughts and feelings about the situation.

Attach the water lines

Slide the new water heater into position, recut or lengthen the old tubing to connect it to the new, and solder the tubing together using copper slip couplings to complete the installation. If the tubing does not line up properly, use pairs of 45-degree elbows to adjust the alignment of the lines. Step 7 – Organize your time and resources.

Reattach the vent

Reconnect the vent if necessary. Place it securely over the draft hood and secure it with three 3/8-in. No. 6 sheet metal screws to hold it in place. Prepare the holes by drilling them beforehand. Before turning at the first elbow, the vent should rise at least 12 inches vertically from the floor. In this eighth step, you will learn how to use a comma to separate the words “and” and “and not.”

Use two wrenches to attach the gas line

Reconnect the gas line if necessary. Pipe joint compound should be applied to the threaded ends before screwing the first nipple into the gas valve. To minimize straining the valve, use two pipe wrenches at the same time. Reassemble the remaining nipples, concluding with the union at the end of the process (Photo 2). Then, in order to fill the tank, perform these four steps: To check for leaks, perform the following steps: (1) cut off the main water valve; (2) re-connect the water at the main shutoff; (3) open the cold-water valve on the water heater (but do not close it); and (4) turn on a nearby hot-water faucet until water flows out.

Check for backdrafting

The majority of water heaters rely on a natural airflow to carry combustion emissions up the chimney and out of the building. If the draft does not operate, the fumes, which may contain lethal carbon monoxide, will be released into your home and cause you to become sick. Check the draft when you’ve finished installing everything. Close all of your external doors and windows, and put on the exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom. Continue to run a hot water faucet until you hear the gas burner in your water heater come to life.

Ideally, the smoke should be drawn upward through the vent pipe. If the smoke does not draw, this indicates that the burner’s fumes are not escaping. Turn off the gas supply to the water heater and contact a certified plumber to diagnose and remedy the problem. Step number ten.

Check for leaks

Check for leaks by turning on the gas and squeezing a 50-50 combination of dishwashing liquid and water over the connection points. If there are bubbles in the mixture, you have a leak. Joints that are leaking should be tightened or reconnected. When you’re finished, wipe the joints down with a clean cloth. Make an appointment with the plumbing inspector to have them go at your work. Follow the how-to instructions that are included with the photographs to ensure that the connections are secure.

Light the pilot light

The pilot light should be turned on in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. (When using an electric water heater, turn on the electricity at the main panel after your work has been checked by the electrical inspector). Once you’ve finished, adjust the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit according to the installation instructions. The pilot light in the new water heater should be lit, then the temperature setting should be adjusted.

Installation Details for Electric Water Heaters

At your main electrical panel, turn off all power to your water heater, then turn it back on. After that, empty the water heater in the same manner as you would a gas water heater. As soon as the water heater has been drained, separate the electrical wires from the screw terminals under the access panel, which is normally situated towards the top of the water heater. To handle all of the electrical wiring, you should engage an electrician if you don’t have any prior knowledge with it. When it comes to wiring the new water heater, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

x 4-in.
metal electrical box on the wall or ceiling near the water heater, route the old wires to the box, and then run a new length of armored cable or electrical conduit to the water heater to complete the installation.
The circuit should also have a shutdown switch that is visible from the vicinity of the water heater.
You’ll almost certainly require a permit.
Aluminum wire needs specific care and handling.
This wiring is a dull gray color, rather than the drab orange color that is characteristic of copper wiring.

How to Dispose of a Water Heater

In this video lesson, Jeff Gorton, an editor at The Family Handyman, will show you how to remove and dispose of a water heater in the proper manner. He will also demonstrate a simple method of transporting a water heater out of your home, even if you are working on your own.

These tips will make your work go faster and easier:

To avoid modifying the length of your water, gas, or electrical lines, take note of the height of your existing water heater and get a new one that is the same height
On older water heaters, the drain valve (Photo 2) frequently becomes clogged. Please be patient if the water drains slowly. WARNING: The temperature is really high! TIP: Turn off your water heater two hours before you want to use it to enable the water to cool. Water heaters are around 150 pounds in weight. When you’re moving the old one out and wheeling the new one in, you’ll need a strong partner or a dolly to assist you. Ordinarily, garbage collection agencies charge approximately $25 to remove the old one. Before you begin, go to a plumbing supply or hardware store, or a home center, and purchase the equipment and materials seen below. Check the sizes of the water supply pipes (the majority will be 3/4 in., as shown in our photographs) and purchase the fittings that are the proper size. If you have everything you need, you should be able to complete the work in four to six hours (provided there are no major problems!). This safety mechanism, which controls tank pressure and prevents it from bursting, is located in the tank’s pressure relief valve assembly (Photo 4). It is necessary to include a fresh one with each installation. The discharge pipe must be kept clear of impediments in order for the valve to function correctly (see Fig. A). Use 3/4-in. plastic-lined nipples (about $2 each
Photo 5 and Fig. A) to attach other metals, mainly copper tubing to the steel tank, in areas where the water is highly mineralized or where it is needed by municipal laws. This has the effect of slowing rusting. In order to avoid heating the tank itself during soldering, solder the copper fittings before screwing them to the tank (Photo 5)
Slip couplings should be used to link the existing and new water lines (Photo 6). (Photo 6). They do not have an internal stop, in contrast to normal couplings. Alternatively, you may slip them on, align the copper tubing, then slide them back and center them over the junction
However, the new inlets and outlets on the tank don’t always line up with the old supply lines, and vice versa. If required, solder in a pair of 45-degree fittings to ensure that each line is offset. While you’re doing it, you should also replace the old cutoff valve with a new ball valve (Photo 6). The diameter of the vents is determined by the amount of heat produced by the water heater. In order to achieve the ideal draft, you may need to raise or reduce the ventilation size. CAUTION: If you’re not sure whether or not your chimney has a liner, consult with a plumbing inspector. Make gas connections using solid steel pipe (Photo 8) or soft copper tubing with flare fittings (Fig. A). Both are more dependable and less expensive than flexible stainless steel connections, which are not usually allowed in some applications. For the same reasons, rigid copper water supply lines should be used rather than flexible copper water supply lines
If your water heater replacement is located in a location where leaking might cause damage to the floor or other elements of the home, lay a pan of an appropriate size beneath it (metal for gas water heaters). a drain tube that connects to a home drain or another suitable site must be installed in the pan (outdoors where permitted). If a leak might cause damage to the flooring, the discharge tube for the temperature and pressure relief valves must also connect to a drain. If routing is a problem, consult with your local plumbing inspector about possible solutions. Special straps should be used to secure your water heater to the wall if you reside in an earthquake-prone location (Fig. A
Available at plumbing stores and home centers). If they are necessary, your plumbing inspector will inform you of this. Ensure that the new water temperature setting does not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid scorching

Additional Information

Water Heater Maintenance: How to Extend the Life of Your Hot Water Heater How to Repair a Leaking Water Heater Water Heater Installation Instructions on how to replace the TPR valve on a water heater Solar Water Heater Made at Home How to Repair or Replace Water Heater Dip Tubes That Are Defective How to Flush a Water Heater (with Pictures) The Process of Purchasing a New Water Heater 7 Myths About Tankless Water Heaters That You Should Never Believe The Advantages and Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters

How Hard Can Installing a Water Heater Be?

Oh, we adore all of you do-it-yourselfers out there, we genuinely do! Congratulations on taking a self-assured stride into the home improvement store, on your attentive intake of step-by-step internet lessons, and on your sheer determination in tackling any job, large or little. To the contrary, we know that many of you have had previous experience with both basic and major plumbing repairs in your house. It stands to reason that when it comes to installing a new water heater, it would appear to be an excellent candidate for the do-it-yourself category.

The good news is that there are seven compelling reasons why you should delegate this specific plumbing task to the experts.

It is our highest priority at Ben Franklin Plumbing to ensure the safety of you and your family.

It’s possible that you don’t need a new hot water heater. If your water heater isn’t operating correctly, a Ben Franklin plumber can do a complete check and determine the source of the problem. It may be a simple fix that saves you hundreds of dollars in the long run by avoiding the need to purchase a new water heater
Nevertheless, it is more complicated than just connecting a new tank to the existing water pipes. If your water heater has reached the end of its useful life, it is likely that many of the pipes and fittings that supply it are also in poor condition. Our qualified technicians will provide all of the necessary pipes, fittings, equipment, and venting materials to ensure that your new water heater is installed correctly the first time around. Tank design and connections change throughout time, and it’s likely that the infrastructure that supported your previous, now-defunct tank will need to be upgraded as well, if not already. Even more complicated considerations must be taken into account when switching to a tankless water heater, including the requirement for specialized venting. When it comes to plumbing, our plumbers are taught to ask the proper questions and pay attention to the small details that ensure that the task is done correctly the first time. We will remove and dispose of your faulty water heater as part of our service visit, saving you from the potentially fatal risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Contact Ben Franklin Plumbing now to schedule your installation. We’ve previously touched on the subject of venting, but it’s worth reiterating! Proper ventilation is essential for all gas-powered water heaters, whether they are standard or tankless in design. Improper venting can cause carbon monoxide emissions to accumulate in your house, which can be fatal if they are not ventilated properly. If you allow even the slightest leak to develop as a result of your DIY efforts, you might expose yourself and your family to potentially dangerous (if not lethal) circumstances. A good opportunity to remind you that you should purchase and install carbon monoxide detectors in your house on each level, as well as in your garage. When placed next to smoke detectors, you may be confident that your whole living space is covered
If something goes wrong, you’re out of the woods. In addition, by hiring a professional to install your water heater, you will be protected by a guarantee that will cover you in the event that something goes wrong with either your installation or the system itself. It is possible to obtain a manufacturer’s guarantee on the physical tank when you do it yourself, but none of the auxiliary parts, pipes, or other things associated with the installation will be protected. Your peace of mind in knowing that you can fix any concerns with a single phone call is priceless
Is it time to sell your home? It’s time to make a payment! If you decide to put your house on the market and you built your water heater yourself, you may be required to pay to have it examined and authorized by the local building department. In the course of the pre-sale inspection procedure, water heaters are inspected. The inspector may order you to make repairs or even have the hot water heater professionally reinstalled if you fail to do so. This implies that you’ll have spent twice (and much more) for what appeared to be a cost-effective DIY project at the time
One size does not fit all when it comes to DIY projects. Your home’s and family’s hot water requirements have most certainly changed significantly since your existing water heater was installed, making it necessary to replace it. While the sales crew at the store where you purchase your water heater is courteous and well-intentioned, it is possible that they will not take all of the crucial considerations into consideration when recommending your new water heater. Allow our pros to do a thorough assessment of your hot water requirements so that we can assist you in determining which product will work best for you. To put it bluntly, you may be in violation of the law. The rules and regulations regulating water heater installation differ from city to city. Depending on where you reside, you may or may not be authorized to install a hot water heater in your house. When it comes to municipal ordinances and legislation that regulate these installations, Ben Franklin is well-versed.

DIYers, you have our highest respect, but when it comes to installing a new water heater in your house, trust the professionals at Ben Franklin Plumbing to do it correctly the first time, according to code, safely, and economically. We would be delighted to give you with a free consultation in order to select the most appropriate water heater for your requirements. You may also save money by taking advantage of our monthly service and product offers! For further information, please contact us or call our 24/7 customer care line at (704) 802-1379.

How to Install an Electric Water Heater

Installing a new electric water heater can allow you to save both money and electricity. How to do it is demonstrated in our video and step-by-step instructions. Please keep in mind that product pricing, availability, and item numbers may differ from market to market.

Before You Begin

Examine your water heater to see whether it need replacement or if routine maintenance would suffice. There might be a problem with the heating element or another type of maintenance issue if you are not getting hot water. Before committing to a complete replacement, conduct a brief maintenance inspection. If you have water on the floor or on top of the unit (as opposed to water leaking from a supply line above the unit), you’ll most likely need to replace your water heater as soon as possible.

A excellent time to think about upgrading or reducing your electric water heater is when your family’s size has increased or decreased.

If you’re not confident in your ability to complete water heater installation, hire a professional.

Caution The water pressure in your house is critical for all of the equipment that use water. A decrease in pressure reduces the stress placed on plumbing systems and helps to increase the lifespan of appliances and fixtures.

Water Pressure

The water pressure in your house is critical for all of the equipment that use water. A decrease in pressure reduces the stress placed on plumbing systems and helps to increase the lifespan of appliances and fixtures. Check the water pressure in your house by attaching a pressure gauge to an exterior spigot. The optimal PSI ranges from 50 to 60 PSI. if the water pressure in your house is more than 80 PSI, use the pressure-reducing valve located near the main water shut-off to decrease the pressure.

If you don’t already have a pressure-reducing valve in your house, a professional can install one for you.

Expansion Tank

Decide the type of expansion tank you’ll require. It is possible to reduce surplus pressure in the lines of a closed system using thermal expansion tanks. A 2-gallon expansion tank can be used with water heaters that hold up to 50 gallons of water. For water heaters that hold up to 100 gallons of water, a 5-gallon expansion tank should be used. For for size information, see the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, the expansion tank is connected to the cold-water supply pipe near or above the water heater.

They simply slot into the pipe without the need for soldering.

Soldering paste should be applied to both the pipe and the fittings before assembling.

In order for an electric water heater installation to be functional, the pressure in the expansion tank must equal the pressure in the main water supply.

Removing the Old Water Heater

The following steps will walk you through the process of installing an electric water heater. When transporting a water heater, employ a helper, an appliance dolly, or a hand truck to ensure that the device is not damaged.

Preventing Scalds

Even with the temperature gauge set at 120 degrees, the risk of scalds remains a possibility. Children, the elderly, and individuals with delicate skin are particularly at risk of developing skin cancer. Consider adding thermostatic mixing valves to keep people safe from being hurt. Installed at the point of use faucet, fixture, or appliance, a thermostatic mixing valve regulates both the volume and temperature of water by connecting to both the hot and cold water supply lines at the same location.

Should You Install Your Own Water Heater? Seriously?

If you are a homeowner, one of the most amazing questions we hear is whether or not you should build your own water heater. Our response is succinct and to the point: don’t. Tankless water heaters are the most complex to install, and only a small percentage of homeowners do it at their own risk. Installing a storage tank water heater is also not your typical do-it-yourself project. “In addition to plumbing skills, you’ll need electrical, carpentry, and heating and ventilating experience,” says Jeff Sims, President of billyGO Plumbing Operations.

“You’ll also need to be familiar with state and local building codes, obtain a permit for the work, and arrange for the city to inspect the installation.”

Know The Risks

Failure to adhere to plumbing rules can put you and your family at serious danger in terms of safety, financial stability, and legal liability. When a tank is improperly installed, pressure can build up inside it to the point that it explodes and launches itself through whatever is above it. Anyone in the vicinity is at risk of suffering a serious, and potentially deadly, harm. In terms of financial protection, many homeowner insurance policies expressly demand that the installation be performed by a licensed plumber, or the policy may be voided altogether.

The risk associated with installing a water heater is assumed by billyGO, according to Sims, who also has insurance to cover all scenarios.

The 15 Most Common Water Heater Mistakes

Breaching plumbing rules can expose you to significant risks in terms of health and safety, as well as economic and legal consequences. Pressure might build up in the tank as a result of improper installation to the point where the tank will blow up and splatter whatever is above it. A significant, maybe deadly, harm can be sustained by anybody in the vicinity. In terms of financial protection, many homeowner insurance policies expressly demand that the installation be performed by a licensed plumber, or the policy would be voided entirely.

The risk associated with installing a water heater is assumed by billyGO, according to Sims, and the company has insurance to cover all eventualities.

Hire a Pro

Water heaters all fail at some point in their lives. Annual maintenance will keep them operating at peak performance and extend their service lives by many years. As Sims pointed out, billyGO allows customers to schedule their own appointments with a one-hour service window for whatever plumbing or HVAC maintenance they require. According to billyGO HVAC Operations President Adam Mennenga, neither plumbing nor HVAC installations are suitable undertakings for the do-it-yourself home handyman to undertake.

r/DIY – How hard in installing a gas water heater?

I’m a general contractor, but I’ve never worked on a gas water heater before. I’m trying to keep prices as low as possible, and it appears to be very straightforward. Please correct me if I’m incorrect, but it appears to be the case.

Gas and water are turned off
Drain the tank
Remove the waterline, gas line, and venting
And remove the tank and replace it with a new one. Using Teflon tape and adapters for different metal kinds, install water pipes in your home. To do this, open a faucet in the hot water position and turn on the water, letting it run until water runs through the faucet for a few minutes. gas fitting tape should be used to install the gas line
Switch on the gas and check for leaks
Wait an hour
Check the overflow valves
Check the water tank pressure

Is there something I’m overlooking? A $1000 fee for this service does not appear to be justified in my opinion. Edit**Many thanks to DIY for all of the information and comments. Given my hectic schedule, I sought the services of a licensed plumber who agreed to install it for me today for $1300 cash. It would have cost me $900 plus tax for just the tank, not to mention any more items I would have needed.

In case anyone is interested, I’m currently living in a rental with a wonderful landlord. As a result of the financial constraints, I recently gutted the whole kitchen and laundry area to the joists. After this renovation, we were searching for ways to save money everywhere we could.

Electric Water Heater Installation: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re the DIY kind, installing an electric water heater isn’t quite as complicated as it may appear at first glance. However, before starting the project, you should keep in mind that you will be required to perform some basic plumbing and electrical tasks. Even if these kind of jobs make you feel uncomfortable, there are several trustworthy companies that you may hire to install your new water heater. Nevertheless, if you’re up to the task, you may save money by doing it yourself. Generally speaking, electric water heaters have a life span of 8 to 10 years before they need to be replaced.

If you haven’t previously done so, you should troubleshoot the leak before investing in a new water heater.

Except if you discover that the leak is coming from the tank itself, you will have no choice but to replace the water heater.

Preparing to Install an Electric Water Heater

Having concluded that you want a new water heater, you may like to consult our buyers guide to assist you in selecting the most appropriate model for your needs. Furthermore, if you elect to install the water heater yourself, you will be responsible for removing your old water heater and properly disposing of it. Find Local Plumbing Professionals

Tools and Supplies

Installing an electric water heater is far less difficult than installing a gas water heater, but it is still a significant undertaking. Our recommendation is to hire a professional to complete the installation if you are unfamiliar with electrical and plumbing. In addition, they will often dispose of your old water heater for you as part of the installation process. The following are step-by-step instructions for installing your electric water heater:

Disconnect the Electricity

First, we’ll have a look at what to do. Turn off the electricity to your water heater at the circuit breaker panel located near your water heater. Check the wiring of the water heater using a voltage tester to ensure that the device is turned off. Although it is not discussed in the video below, it is always a good idea to double-check that the water heater is not receiving any power after turning it off at the circuit breaker before doing any work on it. Start by turning on a hot water faucet and letting the water flow until it is cold.

The cold water feed to the water heater should be turned off (located at the top of the unit).

Drain the tank by opening the valve and venting it to the outside (or to a floor drain, or even into buckets).

You may also use the T P valve to your advantage.

Disconnect the Electrical

Firstly, we must define what we mean by “first step.” At the circuit breaker panel, turn off the energy to your water heater. To make sure the unit is turned off, check the water heater wiring using a voltage tester. Although it is not discussed in the video below, it is always a good idea to double-check that the water heater is not receiving any power after turning it off at the circuit breaker before performing any repairs. Start by turning on a hot water faucet and letting the water run until it becomes chilly.

The water heater’s cold water supply should be turned off (located at the top of the unit).

Drain the tank outdoors by opening the valve (or to a floor drain, or even into buckets). The hot water faucet should be opened again if it was closed during Step 1. The T P valve can also be opened. By enabling air to enter the tank, you will be able to drain the water more quickly as well.

Disconnect the Plumbing

Step 4Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines from the water heater. Copper plumbing may have been used in the installation of your water heater, and you may need to cut the pipes. If you need to cut the pipes, use a tubing (pipe) cutter and try to leave as much of the pipe as feasible intact as you can before cutting. If the discharge pipe from the T P valve is in good condition, you can remove it from the T P valve and reuse it on your new water heater.

Remove the Old Water Heater

Step 5: Using a dolly, move the old water heater out of the way after the tank is empty. Place the new tank in its proper location. It is recommended that the replacement tank be placed in a drain pan. Find out why. Make certain that your electrical supply will be sufficient to reach the tank. Check sure you have access to the panels and the drain valve in case you need to do maintenance.

Prepare the Plumbing Lines

The pipes will need to be prepared with a sandpaper cloth if your old water heater had copper plumbing and it was required to cut the pipes. Rub the ends of the pipes with the sandpaper cloth until they are gleaming brilliantly again. Find Local Plumbing Professionals

Connect the Electrical Wiring

In order to gain access to the electrical cables, remove the junction box cover in Step 7. Attach the ground wire to the green ground screw using a crimp connector. Wire connectors are used to join the other wires together by twisting them together. Make use of the prior wire connections as a reference and reconnect the wires in the same manner in which they were disconnected. Follow the directions on your label tags or the photo you took in Step 3. After that, reinstall the lid of the junction box.

Attach the Supply LinesTurn On the Water

Step 8: Connect the water supply lines for hot and cold water. Make certain that the cold water pipe is connected to the cold water intake on the water heater (it’s easy to make the error of connecting the cold to the hot water pipe). If your old water heater was plumbed with copper piping, you may want to consider plumbed it with copper piping once more. Flexible hoses, on the other hand, are highly recommended for making the connections. Not only is it more convenient, but it is also a suggested safety element in the event of an earthquake.

Connect the flexible hoses to the nipples on the water heater using the hose clamps.
When connecting flexible hoses to the hot and cold water pipes, we recommend that you use dielectric connections to prevent shock.
By turning on the hot water faucet at the adjacent faucet, you may check for leaks in the flexible hose connections.
Although this step is not discussed in the video, we recommend that you double-check your plumbing before continuing forward with the project.

As long as there are no leaks, you may keep filling your water heater tank with water. As soon as the tank is completely refilled, water will begin to flow out of the hot water faucet.

Attach the T P Discharge Pipe

Step 9Connect the discharge line to the T P valve and tighten it. The pipe’s end must be within 6 inches of the floor in order to function properly.

Make use of a 3/4-inch male copper fitting. Paintpipe dope applied on the exterior of the fitting as well as the interior of the valve fittings. Tighten the fitting to the T P valve fitting once it has been attached. Remove the fitting from the pipe’s end and clean it
Soldering flux should be painted on the inside of the male fitting and outside of the pipe. Fitting the pipe to the fitting is completed. To join the pipes, solder and a torch should be used.

Turn On the PowerBleed the Hot Water Lines

A 3/4-inch male copper fitting is recommended. Paint the exterior of the fitting and the interior of the valve fitting with paint pipe dope. The fitting should be attached to the P valve fitting and then tightened. Remove the fitting from the pipe’s end and clean it well. Soldering flux should be painted on the inside of the male fitting and outside of the pipe; The pipe should be connected to the fitting. The pipe should be connected using solder and a torch;

Bleed Hot Water Lines

Step 11Allow the hot water tap to run for a few minutes until it stops “sputtering” in order to expel the air trapped in the tank and piping system. It may take many hours for the water in the tank to reach its maximum temperature. The temperature setting that is recommended is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it sit for a couple of hours before checking the T P discharge pipe. If the pipe is dripping, it is possible that the pressure is too high.

Watch the Video

Repair and Installation of Water Heaters at the Lowest Possible Price Now is the time to call! Request Estimates from Pre-Approved Local Contractors

Learn How to Install a New Water Heater

Because professional installation may easily add $500 or more to the cost of replacing a traditional tank-style water heater, many homeowners are naturally interested in the option of doing it on their own. Furthermore, while it is considered an advanced project, DIYers with sufficient skill may frequently do the task themselves with a little forethought. It’s crucial to highlight that this is not a project for those who are just getting started. Examining the type of water heater you already have is the first step in learning how to install a new water heater in your home.

Then decide on the size: 30-, 40-, 50-, or larger-gallon containers.
You might consider upgrading to a larger unit if your old one did not provide enough hot water.
However, there must be enough space for the larger heater, the flue size must be correct with proper pitch, and the gas line supplied must be sufficient for the heater’s capacity.
Plumbers bid jobs on the basis of a full day’s worth of labor, however, because the project typically grows more intricate as time goes on.

If you’re not sure in your abilities in these areas, hiring a professional is the best course of action. Depending on where you live, it may even be unlawful for homeowners to deal with gas hookups! When it comes to dealing with gas lines, it’s important to always abide by municipal regulations.

Gas Water Heater Venting

It has been usual practice for many years to use atmospheric venting to vent the combustion exhaust fumes from a gas-fueled water heater. In this arrangement, a metal draft hood mounted on top of the water heater directed exhaust gases and a small quantity of fresh air from the room up a metal flue that ran through the roof or into a shared chimney, depending on the model. In many circumstances, connecting an existing flue and draft hood to a new water heater will be all that is required; nevertheless, there are other elements (such as the pitch and draft of the connections) that can make the operation considerably more involved than it appears.

However, the building code in some localities may demand that a new water heater be vented using a different method every time one is installed.
When living in an air-tight home, this is frequently essential to prevent the gas and airflow via the water heater flue from causing an air pressure differential, which can suck gases from the water heater burner into the dwelling.
This is seldom an issue in older, less air-tight houses, though.
The majority of folks should hire a professional for this type of service.

Warning

All plumbing installations must be in compliance with the local plumbing code, so check with your local building authority to find out what is required in your region. Because installation varies depending on the location and the kind of heater, the following procedures are intended to serve as a general guideline only and may or may not apply to your specific case. As previously indicated, it is preferable to leave this process to the pros.

Materials

Purchase of a new water heater, as well as any necessary shimming, plumbing fittings, and plumber’s pipe-seal tape. a draft cowl for the water heater (if one is required for a gas heater)
Temperature and pressure relief valves (if not already given)
A drain valve for the water heater (if not already provided)
Fittings for vent pipes (where required)
Nipples for galvanized water heaters with a plastic liner (2)
Flexible water heater tubing (if required)
Flexible gas heater tubes (if required)

Shut off the Water, and the Gas or Electricity

Turn off the power to the existing water heater and disconnect the water heater’s plumbing. Turn off the water at the main water cutoff valve in the home or at a branch shutoff valve that controls the cold water that runs to the water heater in the basement. Then turn off the electricity or gas to the building. For an electric water heater, follow these steps: Turn off the circuit breaker for the water heater’s circuit in the breaker box for the house.

a. This is normally a double-pole breaker with a 30-amp rating. For a gas water heater, turn off the gas supply at the shutoff valve on the gas line that is closest to the water heater and then turn on the water heater. Water main should be shut off at the water meter. Home-Cost.com

Drain the Water Heater Tank

A garden hose should be connected to the drain valve located towards the bottom of the water heater. Open the nearest hot water faucet, such as the one in the bathroom, to avoid suction from building up in the line, which can cause the draining to become sluggish. Place the other end of the hose over a floor drain or direct it to an open area outside. To prevent silt from clogging the drain valve, open it carefully when first turning it on. Allow the tank to empty entirely before turning off the valve and removing the hose from the tank.

Getty Images courtesy of Dorling Kindersley

Disconnect the Water Lines

Disconnect the hot and cold water lines from the water heater by using a pipe wrench or channel-lock pliers to tighten the connections. The water lines to the heater may be linked with flexible tubes (usually combined with compression or union fittings) or with soldered connections, depending on the type of heater being used (soldered lines must be cut with atubing cutter).

Disconnect the Electrical or Gas Lines

Next, the water heater’s power source must be unplugged from the mains power supply. For an electric water heater, follow these steps: Removing the cover from the wire connection panel at the top of the water heater will reveal the wire connections. Check the individual wires with a non-contact voltage tester to ensure that the circuit is off, and then remove the wire connectors that link the circuit wires to the water heater leads. Remove the cable from the connection box by unscrewing the cable clip and pulling the cable out.

There are several types of gas tubes available.

Disconnect the Water Heater Vent (Gas Heaters Only)

The vent pipe should be disconnected from the draft hood located on the top of the heater. In most cases, three or four sheet metal screws are used to attach the draft hood to the exhaust vent pipe. If the draft hood is still in excellent condition, you may be able to utilize it with the new water heater if you replace it.

Swap the Old Water Heater for the New

Use an appliance dolly with straps to move the old water heater out of the way and wheel in the new water heater. The use of a helper is recommended while moving water heaters up and down basement steps. When transferring the heater, make sure you tie it to the dolly with strong straps. Clean up the area on the floor where the old heater used to be. Bring in the new water heater and align it with the existing plumbing connections so that it is connected to the water heater’s plumbing system. Shimming beneath the legs of the new water heater can help to level it if necessary.

Tip

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, there may be brackets or straps that need to be attached to the wall to keep the water heater from moving about while in use.

The water heater should be installed. Image courtesy of Jim Zuckerman / Getty Images

Install the Relief Valve and Other Fittings

Install all of the necessary fittings that are required for the water heater to function properly. This always comprises a temperature and pressure relief valve (also known as a TPR valve) as well as a drainpipe for discharge. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install any additional fittings that may be required. Relief valve for high and low temperatures and pressures

Connect the Water Lines

Tie galvanized plastic-lined nipples to the cold water input and hot water outlet ports on the top of the water heater using stainless steel screws. In order to install the nipples, you must first cover the threads with plumber’s pipe-seal tape before threading the nipples into the apertures and tightening them using channel-lock pliers or with a pipe wrench. Connect the cold water pipe to the intake nipple on the water heater, and the hot water pipe to the output nipple on the water heater to complete the installation.

When the water pipes are hard-piped into the water heater and cutting is necessary to remove the water heater, the operation becomes a little more difficult.
The method you use will be determined by the type of pipe you have and the layout of your plumbing system, among other factors.
The installation of flexible tubes to link the hot and cold water pipes to the water heater is a suitable time to do so if you do not already have them in place.
Male-threaded adapters must be attached to both the water heater nipples and the ends of the hot and cold water pipes in order to do this.

Connect the Gas or Electrical Lines

Connect the gas or electricity sources, depending on their location: For a gas water heater, follow these steps: Connect the gas line to the control valve for the gas burner. Use a flexible gas line if it is available and permitted by local regulations. Check for leaks by turning on the gas supply valve and scrubbing the gas union and any gas joints with a soapy water solution until they are clean. If you notice any bubbles, this indicates that the connection is leaking and that it needs to be tightened.

For an electric water heater, follow these steps: Connect the electrical cable to the water heater’s wire connection box, which is located at the top of the water heater.

Wire connectors should be used to connect the circuit wires to the water heater lead connections. Attach the cover plate to the wire connection box using the screws provided.

Reconnect the Vent (Gas Heaters Only)

The draft hood should be installed at the top of the water heater, centered above the exhaust aperture, and then inserted into the exhaust pipe. Sheet-metal screws are used to hold it in place. You may need to reduce the vent pipe if the new water heater is higher than the old one. You may accomplish this by cutting the vent pipe down to size using metal shears or by installing a shorter pipe segment. Another option is to lengthen the vent by installing an additional vent pipe segment if your water heater is less than the standard length.

The new water heater should come with its own set of parts and operating instructions.

Tip

Shared venting with a chimney or flue that simultaneously serves a furnace (as seen above) is no longer permitted in some municipalities. This means that you may need to hire a professional to reroute the venting for your new water heater in this situation. courtesy of Comstock / Getty Images

Complete the Installation

Connect the hot water faucet to a distant position in the home, then turn on the cold water supply valve to the water heater, allowing the water heater tank to fill with water until the hot water tap is turned off. When water begins to flow from the hot water faucet, you’ll know the tank is completely full. Turning the circuit breaker back on for an electric water heater will re-energize the circuit that supplies electricity to the water heater. If you’re using a gas heater, make sure the main gas valve is open and that the pilot igniter is functioning correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Turn on the heater and adjust the temperature of the water heater.