For most people, their home is their biggest and most valuable asset. The value of any house is greatly affected by the quality of the appliances and plumbing in the house. Having high-quality plumbing and appliances not only adds value to your home but also makes it safer to live in. When it comes to appliances, the hot water tank is one of the most important fixtures in any home. It is also one of the most complex and most expensive appliances to install, especially if you are going the DIY route. If you are planning on installing a new hot water tank in your home, it is important to be aware of the common problems and pitfalls associated with water heater installation so that you can better prepare for this project and avoid unnecessary stress or expense.
One of the most common problems during water heater installation is noise and leaks. If the water and gas lines in and around your home are not properly insulated, they will make a lot of noise during the day, which can be very disruptive. This is one of the most important things to keep in mind when installing a water heater. If the lines are not insulated, you will need to add extra insulation to the walls and ceilings of your home. This is one of the most expensive parts of the installation, but it will make a significant difference in how much noise your home is subject to.
Another common problem related to installation is finding the right location to install the water heater. Many people choose to install their water heater in the basement, but this may not be the best choice for certain homes. Basements tend to be more humid and have lower air quality, which means the water in your hot water tank will evaporate more quickly and require more frequent maintenance. If you do decide to install the water heater in the basement, it is important to make sure the discharge and feed pipes are sized correctly. If the discharge pipe is too small, it will cause the water pressure in the house to drop, which could lead to leaks. It is also important to make sure the pipes are properly insulated to minimize the risk of freezing during the winter.
As we mentioned earlier, an essential part of installing a water heater is to test the water pressure before turning the water back on. If the water pressure in the house is too high, it can cause scalding hazards. To test water pressure, turn the water off at the main water line and then turn on the cold water faucet in a bathroom. If the water flow is very slow and seems to be taking forever to reach the faucet, that means the water pressure is too high. The solution to this problem is to locate the water meter, which is the device used to measure water usage. You can then turn off the main water line, shut off the water meter, and then turn on the cold water faucet. If the water flow is very slow and steady, that means the pressure is too high and you should call in a plumber.
The cost of installing a new water heater is another common problem. There are many factors that go into the overall cost of installation, but one of the biggest expenses is the cost of the new tank itself. If you are installing a new tank, it is important to make sure you are purchasing a high-efficiency model, as lower-efficiency models can cost up to $1,000 more over the course of the ten-year warranty. Another way to save money is to source your tank from a wholesaler, as the wholesaler will typically charge less for their products than the retail price.
The process of installing a water heater can be a bit intimidating, but it doesn't have to be if you prepare ahead of time. Knowing the problems associated with water heater installation and their solutions can help decrease the likelihood of something going wrong during the installation process. Also, it is a good idea to have an experienced plumber on hand to help you through the installation process. This way, you can be sure that everything is done correctly and safely. If you are considering installing a new water heater in your home, it is important to be aware of the problems associated with water heater installation. This will help you better prepare for the project and avoid unnecessary stress or expense.