If you’ve visited a friend or family member whose home has an old and worn-out water heater, you may be curious about how to install a new one. It’s an understandable concern because many water heaters are complicated and dangerous – even fatal – if installed incorrectly. Fortunately, most water heaters are relatively simple to install, provided you have the right tools and expertise. A new water heater can make a huge difference in your home, both in terms of comfort and long-term health – which is why many homebuyers specifically look for these appliances in their search. If you’re in the market for a new water heater, keep reading for helpful information on how to buy one and how to install it correctly.

What are the different kinds of water heaters?

There are three main types of water heaters: gas, electric, and hybrid. Each type has its own specific pros and cons, so it’s important to decide which type is right for you. If you live in a home that already has a gas line or an electrical source nearby, you may want to consider installing a hybrid water heater. Hybrid heaters use both gas and electricity to produce hot water, making them the most energy-efficient option. If you don’t have access to gas or electricity nearby, however, you’ll need to install a gas- or electric-only water heater.

What should I look for in a water heater?

There are several factors that every prospective buyer should look for when buying a water heater. Here are just a few things to keep in mind:- Type: This is perhaps the most important factor to consider when buying a new water heater. There are three main types of water heaters: electric, gas, and hybrid. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks.- Size: The size of your water heater will change based on your home’s size, occupancy, and usage patterns.- Age and efficiency: The age of the tank will affect how long it lasts, but it will also affect the price. The more efficient the tank, the more money you’ll save on water.- Location: The location of the water heater will also affect the cost and how long it lasts. The more centrally located your water heater, the more expensive it will likely be and the longer it will last.- Vendor reputation: Do some research on the reputation of the company that manufactured your prospective water heater. You can also ask around at your local hardware store to find out which brands and models are the most popular.

How to Install a Water Heater?

Before you start installing your new water heater, make sure to shut off the water supply to the house and to turn off the main water valve in the wall. Once you have all of your tools and supplies, you’ll need to turn off the electricity at the breaker box. After that, you can begin installing your water heater. If you’re installing a hybrid water heater, you’ll need to install both the gas and electrical connections. If you’re installing a gas-only water heater, you only need to connect the gas line.- Location: The location of your new water heater will depend on your specific circumstances, but there are a few things to keep in mind.- Safety: Make sure your water heater is properly insulated and that it is secured to the floor to prevent injury.

Conclusion

Water heating is a necessity for every home, but it’s also a significant expense. Thankfully, there are many different types of water heaters on the market, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s a good idea to do your research and shop around before buying a new water heater. With a little bit of preparation, you can make sure you get the best water heater for your home.

Frequently Asked Question

While you technically can install a hot water heater yourself as a homeowner, the likelihood that this is a good or safe idea is very slim. Trust the professionals with your hot water heater installation to make sure it's done correctly. You wouldn't want to cause yourself or your family any harm.
The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For a new tankless water heater, new electric wiring will need to be installed.
Turn off all water supplies in the house. Turn on all the hot water faucets in the house in order to drain what is left in the existing hot water heater. Then, disconnect the water line that connects the water heater to the rest of the house. There is often a connection on a hose that you can simply unscrew.
These heaters can be fueled by electricity, gas, or liquid propane and installed in many areas of your home. The national average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $1,100 to $2,800, with most people paying around $1,800 for a direct replacement of a 50-gallon gas hot water heater using the same model.
  • Your older water heater is getting up there in age
  • It's making strange noises
  • You're getting rusty water out of the tap
  • Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
  • There are water puddles around the unit
120 degrees Fahrenheit is the safety recommendation against scalding, but 140° is the common default setting. Most experts agree that anything below 120 degrees creates a risk for bacteria to develop inside your water heater from stagnant water, such as legionella that causes Legionnaire's disease.
Turn up the thermostat on the hot water heater. One of the easiest ways to make a hot shower last longer is by using less hot water while it's at a higher temperature. To do this, turn up the temperature on the thermostat that's attached to the hot water heater tank. (Not the thermostat on the wall.)
Sediment buildup shortens the life of your water heater and adds to your energy bill by reducing its efficiency. Draining two or three gallons of water is usually enough to flush out sediments, but always let the water flow until you no longer see particles in the bucket. Regular water heater maintenance will always extend its lifespan.
  • You're overusing hot water.
  • The water heater tank size is too small for your household.
  • Your hot water heater is tankless.
  • Sediment or minerals have built up in your water heating system.
Soft water can actually corrode the water heater anode faster. When the anode wears down, the corrosive elements will move on to the tank. So if left alone, a water softener system can actually shorten the lifespan of a water heater.