The process of replacing an old water heater with a new model can be time-consuming and costly. However, the installation of a new water heater is not difficult as long as you have the right supplies on hand and have the right tools to do the job. Depending on the type of system in your home, you may decide to install a new gas, electric, or hybrid water heater. Fortunately, new models of each of these types are becoming more efficient and user-friendly than ever before. Additionally, most water heaters come as self-contained units that include all major components and are fairly easy to install. Once you’ve decided on the type of water heater you need, it’s time to start planning an installation that will not only be effective but also safe for the long term. Keep reading to learn about the different steps involved in installing a new water heater.

Selecting a Location

One of the first things you should do when installing a new water heater is select a location for the unit. Ideally, you want the unit to be placed in a central location, away from sources of water that might otherwise be used for washing and bathing. If you have a small home with a limited floor plan, you may have to settle for a less ideal location. However, there are a number of factors to consider when selecting a location, including: - Proximity to other appliances - Proximity to sources of water - Proximity to floor joists and other areas where the unit might be exposed to water and damage - Proximity to areas where the unit might be exposed to extreme heat or cold - Proximity to areas where the unit might be exposed to rodents - Proximity to areas where the unit might be exposed to excess noise

Checking the Water Supply Pipe

Before you install a new water heater, you should test the water supply pipe to make sure it is safe for the installation. Many old supply pipes are made of uncoated or galvanized metal that may become brittle or corroded as a result of the water flow. A supply pipe that is too weak to support the new water heater and an increased water flow could result in a pipe break, which is a serious safety hazard. When it comes to water pipes, the only thing worse than a break in the line is an unprotected break. It’s better to be safe than sorry and check the supply pipe before installing the new water heater.

Selecting a Size and Type of Water Heater

Next, you will want to select the size and type of water heater that will be best suited for the needs of your home. The size of your water heater will depend on the size of your home and the number of people living there. The average household uses between 50 and 100 gallons of water per day, so a standard 10-gallon water heater should be more than enough to meet the needs of most households. However, if you have a large family or live in a very warm or humid climate, a larger water heater will be necessary.There are a number of different types of water heaters available, including conventional, electric, and hybrid water heaters. Each type has its own features and benefits, so you will want to consider these factors when selecting a unit.

Working to a Budget

Finally, you will want to work to a budget when installing a new water heater. While you may be tempted to spend as much as you can, it’s important not to get carried away. It’s better to install a basic unit than one that will require frequent repairs and replacements due to poor performance. This will not only save you money in the long run but also help you avoid unexpected utility bills.

Completing the Installation

Once you’ve selected a location, a size and type of water heater, and worked to a budget, you are ready to complete the installation. Make sure you are wearing the proper safety gear before you begin. It’s a good idea to cover any exposed areas with a drop cloth or other protective covering to prevent damage and keep dust and dirt out of the home.When you are ready to begin, make sure the supply pipe has been tested and is safe for the installation. Once the water is turned off at the main supply valve, use a pipe wrench to remove the old water heater’s old pipe couplings.

Conclusion

If you are in the process of replacing an old water heater with a new model, it’s important to take your time and do a thorough job. When installing a new water heater, the process should be carefully planned and executed to make sure everything is done correctly. With the right tools and supplies, a new water heater can be installed in a matter of hours. However, the installation should be done by a professional water heater technician to ensure it is done correctly and safely.

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.