Can You Install Your Own Hot Water Heater

Most residential water heaters cost 150 to 400 for either gas or electric plus 200 to 450 if you have a plumber install it.

Can you install your own hot water heater.

The process wasn t the easiest but it works perfectly and you now have hot water again. Building jurisdictions in nearly all cities and counties require a permit to replace an existing water heater. Align the water heater to ensure easy access to the burner and controls. Reading these warranties before purchasing the water heater will help you avoid invalidating the terms right out of the box.

You ve just installed your water heater without the help of a professional. If a water heater is installed improperly there are many things that can go wrong. I have good experience and general knowledge electrical engineer degree decades of taking everything apart haha but it definitely helps the confidence knowing other people like me can install the water heater on their own. Codes have changed so the installation of a new water heater should meet current codes for safety purposes.

More expensive gas water heaters with special venting systems also are available. Many water heater companies such as ao smith will only approve a warranty claim if the water heater was installed by a qualified professional. Build a platform with 2 x 4 inch pieces of lumber that will allow you to mount the new tankless water heater about four inches from the wall. Mount the tankless water heater securely to the platform.

Installation costs and labor plumbers typically charge 45 to 65 an hour and can usually install a water heater in a day or in 6 8 hours. By installing the water heater yourself you can pocket the extra money or put it into another home improvement project. Depending on the type of water heater you buy you will be working with gas electricity or propane systems. Choose a location for the new water heater that will allow you to vent it to the outside easily.

Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed. Once you make the purchase though the old water heater must be safely removed and the new one installed. Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation. The materials you ll need for the installation depend on your situation and local codes.

In the case of gas or propane even a minor leak caused by a loose connection could cause a hazard. Water heater installation codes even if you ve worked with plumbing and gas lines in the past play it safe and contact your local department of inspections. My water heater is leaking and beyond repair and leaning towards installing new one myself. Great article thanks for your story.

Gives you a sense of accomplishment. Now you re ready to begin installing the gas water heater. A new water heater will cost from 250 to 500 depending on the size efficiency and warranty.