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How to Change a Gas Water Heater to Electric

Contributor
By Nathaniel Miller
eHow Contributing Writer

Electric water heaters save on energy and can efficiently heat your water just as a gas heater can. What's more, many electric water heaters come with simple wiring instructions or even "plug-in" convenience, making installation and maintenance a snap for any do-it-yourselfer. If you are installing an electric hot water heater in lieu of your gas heater, follow a few simple steps to do the job right the first time.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    To remove the old heater, turn off all the water valves leading to and away from the heater, as well as the gas valve. Use crescent wrenches to unscrew the fittings for the gas and water pipes to the water heater.

  2. Step 2

    Open the bleed valve at the base of the tank and allow the water still in the tank to drain. Have an assistant help move the tank out of the current location.

  3. Step 3

    Use the provided hardware and the screwdriver to attach the new heater to the wall.

  4. Step 4

    Connect the water inlet pipe on the heater to the water supply inlet pipe and connect the outlet pipe to the pipe leading to your appliances (i.e., sink, shower, etc.). Using the wiring guide supplied with your heater, connect the heater wiring to the existing home wiring.

  5. Step 5

    Turn the water valves back on and check for leaks in the system. When the tank is full, power the heater according to the instructions included and then test the water to see if it is hot.

Tips & Warnings
  • Make sure to have your heater wiring either installed or at least checked by a certified electrician prior to using the appliance.
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