How to Replace a Water Heater

Water heaters play a vital role in the daily routine of a household. When one has to be replaced, the homeowner will do well to learn all he can about them. Some believe an electric water heater is easier to install than a gas one because of the problems associated with gas lines. However, an electric water heater has elements that will burn out without warning.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pipe wrench
• Large crescent wrench
• Teflon tape
• Wire nuts
• Electrical tape

1. Turn off the water supply coming into the water heater. This is usually color coded (blue for cold). If not, the coolest line will be the supply line. If there is a valve for both lines (feed and distribute), turn them both off.

2. 
   The Pressure Relief Valve

   Disconnect the water lines at the water heater. In most cases, these are flex lines to ease the installation process. Use the crescent wrench if it is large enough, because the pipe wrench can scar the sides of the nut, making it difficult to tighten. Replace all the parts the water heater manufacturer suggests. This will prevent possible problems during the replacement.

3. Lift the pressure-relief valve. This is located on the side of the water heater and has a line that leads outside the house. When lifting the valve, you may hear pressure release from within the tank. Do not worry; this is normal.

4. Drain the water from the tank if it is a large one. Fifty gallons of water is heavy, and the little feet on the water heater are not strong enough to hold the weight when the tank is tilted. See "How to Drain a Water Heater" in the Reference section for more tips on draining a water heater.

5. Set the new water heater in place. Read the instructions for installation provided by the manufacturer to be certain it doesn't require special connectors or anything unusual.

6. Connect the water lines first and allow the tank to fill before connecting the gas or electricity. Be certain to check the seal on the water connections for leaks. If needed, use Teflon tape to seal the threads.

7. Connect the electrical wires with wire nuts and electrical tape. In addition, make sure they are protected from the water lines should a leak occur. If the connection is gas, use a new flex line from the water heater to the house gas line. Use Teflon tape or pipe sealer on the threads to help prevent leaks. Test the connections with a soapy spray (watch for bubbles).

Tips & Warnings

• Check local codes for possible needed permits before replacing a water heater. Keep the water heater as centrally located inside the closet as possible.
• Do not work with live electricity. Do not move a water heater full of water as this can cause injury. Do not use the pipe wrench on anything but galvanized pipe. The coarse teeth will damage the smooth surface of the nut.

References

• How to Drain a Water Heater

Resources

• Installing a Conventional Water Heater