Can I Replace My Own Electric Water Heater

An electric tank typically offers up to 15 years of quality use while the life expectancy of tankless electric water heaters can surpass 20 years.

Can i replace my own electric water heater.

The average life span of a water heater is between 8 and 12 years. If you re replacing a water heater you can replace it with the same type of unit. Well it might be time for you to replace your water heater. If your water tank is more than 10 years old it may be time to consider replacement options.

The first permit is for the water heater itself. If there needs to be electrical modifications many building jurisdictions will allow you to do the modifications yourself if its your own home but a few jurisdictions may require a license electrician to do the work. However upgrade possibilities should be considered. Plumbers typically charge 45 to 65 an hour and can usually install a water heater in a day or in 6 8 hours.

The short answer is yes most of the time. Most residential water heaters cost 150 to 400 for either gas or electric plus 200 to 450 if you have a plumber install it. For example you may choose to increase or decrease the unit s holding capacity to accommodate a changing family. More expensive gas water heaters with special venting systems also are available.

But if you need to upgrade follow our steps which include positioning the new water heater connecting the electrical supply and adjusting the thermostat. Or you may opt to go tankless. When it comes time to replace yours chances are you ll pick the same type of unit either gas or electric. In almost all circumstances replacing an existing water heater will require either one or two permits.

A few rare cases may also require a third permit. This is as easy as heading down to the local planning or building department to ask for one. Tankless water heaters if you decide to replace your water heater consider if you want a storage water heater or a tankless on demand water heater. Some state laws require replacement water heaters to be anchored or braced to resist movement during an earthquake which can cause gas or water line leaks and electrical wiring damage.

The key is picking the most efficient water heater large enough to handle your needs. The next time i need to replace my own water heater i ll probably stick with my standard tank. The increased cost and the increased potential for problems simply doesn t outweigh the added. Intermediate with proper maintenance today s electric water heaters are designed to last approximately six to 12 years.