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How to Hook Up a Gas Water Heater

Contributor
By Cameron Easey
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Waters heaters that get old or develop mechanical problems will need to be replaced. The water heater in your home can be setup to use either electricity or gas. Unless you plan to change the type of water heater used in your home, the same type should be purchased as a replacement. When installing a new gas water heater, you first need to determine the size of water heater that you need.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Shims
  • Pipe-wrap tape
  • Pipe dope
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pipe Wrench
  1. Step 1

    Set the new water heater in place so the controls and thermostat are easily accessible. Make sure the water heater is at least 6 to 8 inches away from any walls.

  2. Step 2

    Place a level on top of the water heater to make sure it is level. Place shims under the base of the water heater if necessary.

  3. Step 3

    Attach the heat trap fitting to the water heater. Wrap the threads of the fittings with pipe-wrap and use a pipe wrench to secure them to the water heater.

  4. Step 4

    Connect the water inlet and outlet pipes to the water heater. Use a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench to tighten the fittings.

  5. Step 5

    Turn of the water supply or open the valve on the water supply line to begin filling the water heater with water. Check for water leaks as the water heater begins to fill with water.

  6. Step 6

    Place the gas pipes on the water heater. Put pipe dope on the threads and screw them together by hand before using a pipe wrench to make sure the pipes are tight.

  7. Step 7

    Tighten the gas line to the water heater. Use a pipe wrench to secure the fittings to make sure they are tight.

  8. Step 8

    Turn on the gas to the water heater to check for gas leaks and to make sure the water heater is working properly.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use flexible tubing if the gas or water lines cannot connect properly to the water heater.
  • If you are unsure about installing the water heater yourself hire a licensed plumber. There may be plumbing codes in your area that need to be followed when installing a new water heater.
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