Water heater installation is a major handyman job that affects your comfort and safety as well as your energy usage. If you’re doing your first water heater installation or are replacing a unit, you can use this info as a guide to help you make an informed decision about repairs and other costs.
This guide on how to install a water heater will tell you everything you need to know about the installation process, the tools and prep work needed, and when it is a good idea to contact the pros at Derks Plumbing Company for a safe and professional installation.
Understanding Water Heater Installation
A water heater install isn’t just a tank swap. It needs to be sized correctly, all connections need to be secure, it needs to be vented correctly (if gas), and it needs to meet all local plumbing and safety requirements. Errors during hot water heater installation can result in leaks, poor functionality and even hazardous situations such as gas leaks and pressure buildup.
Two types of residential water heaters include:
- Tank water heaters (gas or electric)
- Tankless water heaters
Tank-style heaters are what this article concentrate on installing because they are universally found in houses
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before beginning any heater installation, gather the proper tools and materials:
Tools
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Screwdrivers
- Tape measure
- Pipe cutter
- Level
- Garden hose
- Voltage tester (for electric units)
Materials
- New water heater
- T&P relief valve (temperature and pressure)
- Connectors for the water supply
- Pipe fittings
- Ducting materials (for gas units)
- Pipe thread sealant or plumber’s tape.
You might also want to check with your local building department to see if you need a permit to replace your water heater.
Step-by-Step: How to Install a Water Heater
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Water
Prioritize safety,
- For electric models, flip the breaker in your home’s circuit box.
- gas unitsTURN THE GAS CONTROL VALVE TO THE “OFF” POSITION.
- Shut off the cold water feed line to the heater.
Step 2: Drain the Old Water Heater
Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Open the valve and drain the tank. This step is essentials before unplugging the device.
Step 3: Disconnect Utilities
- Disconnect Utilities Discharge utilities from the tank.
- Disconnect water supply lines.
- Electric water heaters: After you have made sure the power is off, disconnect the wiring.
Take out the old unit and clear the space.
Step 4: Position the New Water Heater
Set the new heater and level it. Adequate ventilation is a must to ensure successful water heater installation and performance in the long run.
Step 5: Install the T&P Relief Valve
The temperature/pressure (T&P) relief valve is an important safety device. Install it following the manufacturer instructions, and attach the discharge pipe to it, so that if water discharges, it flows in a downwards direction safely.
Step 6: Connect Water Lines
Connect the hot water outlet & cold water inlet with rated connecting pipes. Apply plumbers tape or sealant for a better seal. This step is a core part of hot water heater installation.
Step 7: Connect Power or Gas
- Electric:Reattach electric wires and verify grounding.
- Gas: Reattach the gas line and check all the fittings for leaks with a gas leak detector or soapy water.
Reattach venting on gas units as necessary for proper exhaust flow.
Step 8: Fill the Tank
Open the cold-water supply valve and allow the tank to fill. Run hot water from a nearby faucet to vent air from the system. Don’t turn on the power or gas until tank is full.
Step 9: Restore Power or Gas
After the tank is filled:
- Switch on the circuit breaker for electric heaters.
- Light the pilot or switch the gas valve to “on” for gas models.
Adjust the thermostat to the recommended setting (usually 120°F).
Step 10: Check for Leaks and Test
Check for leaks in all fittings and make sure the heater is delivering hot water. Watch the first couple of hours for any weird-ness.
You can read about: How to Install Tankless Water Heater
Common Water Heater Installation Mistakes
Poor installation of the heater can cause major issues. Mistakes include
- installing the wrong sized unit
- Not leveling the tank
- Incorrect venting on gas heaters
- Neglecting expansion tanks where appropriate
- Power on before it the tank is full
These errors can lead to a shortened life of the unit, and in some cases, safety hazards.
You can read about: How to Adjust Water Heater Temperature
DIY vs Professional Water Heater Installation
Many homeowners do the DIY water heater install, but more often than not, professional installation is the safer and better option. Licensed plumbers: – ensure.
- local code requirements are met
- vent properly and gas line connections are safe
- Use the correct pressure and temperature
- Protection for a manufacturer warranty
The wrong installation might void your warranty and cause you to pay for repairs down the line.
Why Choose Derks Plumbing Company?
When you need dependable water heater installation services, the team of Derks Plumbing Company has the experience, knowledge, and assurance that you require. Our licensed plumbers take care of everything when it comes to hot water heater installation, including the removal of the old unit and the installation of new unit that meets code.
We Sure That:
- Safe and efficient installations
- Proper Sizing and Recommendations
- Long Lasting Performance
- Clean, professional Service
Final Thoughts
Being able to install a water heater is one thing, but knowing when you need to hire a professional is another. A proper water heater installation ensures that you will be comfortable, safe, and efficient for years to come.
FAQs
What are the steps to install a water heater?
Installing a water heater involves turning off the water and power, removing the old unit, and placing the new one. The water lines, relief valve, and power or gas connections are completed before filling the tank and testing the system.
Which wires are commonly connected to a water heater?
Most electric water heaters use two hot wires and a ground wire. These connections supply 240 volts of power and must be properly grounded for safe operation.
What do plumbers charge to install a hot water heater?
The average cost of hot water heater installation ranges from $800 to $2,500, depending on the type of unit, labor, and any required upgrades or permits.
Why is it so expensive to install a hot water heater?
A water heater install can be costly due to labor, permit fees, disposal of the old unit, and compliance with plumbing and electrical codes. More advanced systems also require additional setup.
How do you connect wiring for a water heater?
During a hot water heater installation, the power is shut off at the breaker, wiring is fed into the junction box, and the hot and ground wires are secured before restoring power.
