Water Heater Installation is one of the most important jobs a plumber performs. Getting it right is a matter of safety, efficiency and up-to-code compliance.
First, make sure the power is off at the breaker panel and remove the junction box cover. Disconnect the hot and cold water lines, using pipe wrenches or channel-lock pliers for compression or union fittings. Contact Water Heater Installation Denver now!
When you take a shower or wash dishes, your water heater works hard to provide hot water in your home. But a sudden rush of cold water, a lack of hot water or a varying water temperature can be signs that your water heater isn’t working correctly. A plumbing contractor can help you determine what’s causing these problems and the best water heater installation for your home.
Conventional storage tank water heaters are the most common type of water heater installed in homes throughout the United States. They consist of an insulated tank that holds anywhere from 30 to 100 gallons. Powered by natural gas, electricity or fuel oil, the heaters continuously heat water to keep a full supply ready for use.
These tanks usually have three pipes to transfer water: one for cold water in, another for hot water out and a safety valve that releases pressure from the tank if a problem arises. Whether your water heater is powered by gas or electricity, these units should be drained and flushed twice a year to eliminate sediment and mineral deposits from the tank and improve their efficiency.
Installing a new tank-type water heater requires removing the old unit, draining the old water and connecting the new lines. The installer may also need to add a new breaker and a vent pipe to the water heater. If you have a gas water heater, the installer must also connect the propane line and install a new gas valve.
The plumber will also disconnect the old water lines and drain the unit, then clean all of the surfaces around the drain ports using a solvent to remove any remaining sediment. The installer will then reinstall the drain valve, shutoff and relief valves and connect the electrical wires to the circuit breaker box.
If you’re upgrading to a tankless water heater from a traditional tank-type system, the plumbing contractor must install a catch pan beneath the tank to collect any leaks or spills and protect your home against mold, warped floors and flooding. The plumbing contractor can also add a new gas or electric meter, depending on what type of system you have.
Tankless Water Heaters
Choosing to install a tankless water heater can help you save energy by heating only the amount of water you need. These units use gas or electricity to heat water on demand, which means they don’t waste energy keeping a large supply of hot water ready, as with traditional water heaters. They can also be installed outdoors, saving space in your home. If you are considering installing a tankless water heater, hire a qualified professional to handle the installation. A quality plumbing technician will ensure that the new water heater is sized and installed properly for safe operation.
When installing a tankless water heater, it’s important to drain the old water heater before starting work. Then, a plumber will connect the inlet and outlet water lines. They may need to upgrade your existing gas line or electrical wiring depending on the model you choose. Gas models typically require a larger gas line and more substantial ventilation, while electric models may need an upgraded circuit or outlet to accommodate their power demands.
Once the inlet and outlet connections are made, the water heater can be mounted. It’s important to mount the unit away from any potential leakage areas and near an accessible vent, preferably outside your house. You’ll also want to set up a drip pan under the tankless water heater to catch any spills and leaks.
Most homeowners opt for an electric tankless water heater because they’re more cost effective than a gas model. However, a gas model may be better for some homes because it has the ability to deliver more hot water than an electric model. Gas models also have the advantage of being able to operate more quickly than electric water heaters.
There are a variety of tankless water heaters available from manufacturers like Rinnai, Rheem, Bosch and EcoSmart. They offer both gas and electric models at a variety of price points. Some even offer tax credits for installing an ENERGY STAR-certified unit. However, no matter which model you choose, it’s essential to perform a few basic maintenance tasks annually to keep your tankless water heater working efficiently.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters use electric heating elements to heat the water. They’re available in tank and point-of-use models, with a variety of sizes to choose from. The element coils are insulated to protect them from direct contact with the water, which minimizes corrosion and prolongs their lifespan.
An advantage of an electric water heater is its relatively low cost compared to gas models. This is due to the lower cost of energy to power the unit, and electricity can be obtained from renewable sources instead of fossil fuels. This helps reduce the environmental impact of your home, and can also be combined with a solar energy system to increase your energy efficiency even further.
Unlike a natural gas model, an electric model does not require extensive ventilation systems to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. This makes it a safer choice for homes with children and elderly adults living in the property. However, a gas leak is still a risk that you should be aware of, especially with older units.
If you’re planning to install an electric water heater in your home, it’s best to consult a professional. They can ensure that the unit is safely installed and connected properly to your existing plumbing and electrical system. They can also help you choose the right model based on your needs, as well as make any necessary adjustments and repairs to keep it in optimal working condition.
To prepare for installation:
- Shut off the water supply to the old water heater and turn off the power.
- Once the installation is complete, turn the water and power back on to the new heater.
- Replace the junction box cover and use a UL listed or CSA approved strain relief to secure the electrical wiring to the water heater.
- Reinstall the user interface display and follow the start-up procedure in the owner’s manual to test it. Before you can use your water heater, it’s important to remember that it can take several hours for a full tank to heat up.
This can be frustrating for homeowners who are accustomed to fast and convenient hot water.
Gas Water Heaters
Water heaters are essential appliances that give us hot running water for many household tasks. If your water heater is old or leaking, it’s time to consider replacement. New models are more energy efficient and have advanced safety features. They also cost less to run than older units. Choosing the right model for your home will depend on your budget, household size and needs, and your availability of the necessary fuel type.
Gas water heaters use natural or liquid propane gas to heat the tank. They’re known for their energy efficiency, and can lower your utility bills compared to electric models. They also have a faster recovery rate than electric water heaters, which means you won’t run out of hot water as quickly. In addition, they can function during power outages because they don’t rely on electricity.
A key feature of a gas water heater is the pressure-relief and temperature-discharge valve, which protects the unit from overheating. This valve is located on the top of the tank and looks like a car radiator cap. It opens when there is a build-up of pressure or high temperatures, and discharges the excess into a drain pipe.
Another feature is the gas pilot light, which lights the burner to ignite the gas and heat the water. While electric water heaters have heating rods that spread the heat across the tank’s length, gas models rely on an open flame to quickly warm up and distribute hot water throughout your home.
The water heater installation process requires special skills because you’re working with natural gas or propane, and a potentially dangerous electrical connection. While most models come with detailed instructions and plenty of warnings, you should always have a professional handle the work to ensure that it’s done correctly. A pro can establish the proper connections, avoid leaks and properly vent your water heater to prevent fire or electrocution hazards.
Before hiring a plumber, look at the space you have available for the new heater and consider how much water your home uses daily. Having this information in advance will help the professional make recommendations and choose the best model for your home. It will also help them determine the price range of installation, as well as any additional costs, such as for carpentry work if you need to alter your attic or install a new venting system.