How to Install a Water Heater

Steam swirl clouds relax your mind; tight deltoids release beneath the hot pulsing flow. Gurgle gurgle hiss gurgle kerplunk, the water is instantly ice. A blood-curdling scream shatters the air; even before you recognize your own voice, you know the water heater is gone. The plumber will cost several hundred dollars. Do it yourself, in an afternoon, and save fifty percent.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dolly
• Water Hose
• Tongue and Groove Pliers
• Pipe Wrench
• Slip Joint Pliers
• Torpedo Level
• Teflon Tape
• Joint Compound

1. Verify local ordinances and building codes before you begin to establish permits inspections and other possible requirements.

2. Know how much space you have to accommodate your replacement water heater. Standard installation requires two-foot minimum clearance around the water heater and 30 inches above it.

3. Determine the type and location of the current plumbing connections and measure between the hot and cold water pipes. Matching these on your new water heater makes your install easier.

4. Purchase your new water heater.

Install The New Water Heater

5. Turn off the cold water at the heater or the main shutoff valve. Disconnect the fuel source by turning off the circuit breaker for an electric appliance or shutting down the gas supply at either the tank or main valve.

6. Drain the old water heater. Connect a hose to the drain valve; put the open end where the water can drain, over a floor drain or in a utility sink. Open a hot water spigot and release the drain valve slowly to prevent sediment from blocking it.

7. Disconnect the water pipes from the water heater with a pipe wrench or tongue and groove pliers. Remove the gas pipe or electrical service connection and detach the gas flue.

8. Ask a friend to help you remove the old water heater; even with the dolly, it is too heavy for one person. Be sure the floor is clean and dry before moving the new water heater into place. Line up your plumbing fixtures with the connections on your new water heater. Make sure the unit is level.

9. Install the pressure relief valve and reconnect the water lines. Seal copper connections with Teflon tape; use joint compound on galvanized fittings. Fill the tank.

10. Reconnect the electrical wiring or the gas pipe and flue. Set the thermostat between 110 and 130 degrees and turn your new water heater on.

Tips & Warnings

• Use flexible copper supply lines to extend the lines if the inlet and outlet openings on your new water heater are not in line with your plumbing.
• Make sure to open at least one hot water spigot when filling the take to avoid trapping air in the water lines.
• This article does not apply if you are switching from a gas water heater to an electric one or visa versa.
• When working with electricity, ensure the power is off and the box is locked. Make sure you do not overload a circuit and have your work professionally inspected.
• Be safe. Always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from possible injury.

Resources

• Replace a Water Heater

[MariaBridges]

on 6/12/2008 Great Info Thanks for the article . I'm sure it will come in handy when, yes when, my water heater goes. It is indeed on the fritz :)