Important Things to Know About Water Heater Replacement
Whether you are replacing an existing water heater or installing a new one, there are some important things to know about the installation process. Having a professional install your water heater will ensure that you will have hot water in your home in no time. However, it will also add some inconvenience. You will need to schedule your installation appointment at a time that will work best for you.
In addition to determining how long it will take to install your new water heater, you will also need to decide where you will install it. Depending on the location of your home, you may have to run new gas lines or power lines. In addition, you may need to install venting pipes and plumbing code updates. You may need to purchase an expansion tank as well.
Once you have decided where you will install your new water heater, you will need to get a permit. This is typically a local government requirement. Depending on your area, you may have to pay for an on-site inspection, a permit, or even changes to your utilities. The cost of this permit can be as little as $50, or as much as $1500.
The permit will cover the cost of inspecting your plumbing work. Your local government will determine the requirements, and you may need to pay for a separate permit for each aspect of your project. For example, you may need a permit for converting a tank-style water heater to electric. Depending on your city or town, you may also need a permit for a gas-fueled water heater.
If your current water heater is gas-powered, you will need to run a gas line to the new location. Before you begin, you should inspect the gas line and determine whether it needs to be coated with pipe joint compound. You should also make sure that you have two pipe wrenches. After you have determined that the gas line is safe, you can screw it into the gas valve.
When you decide to install a new water heater, you will need to replace the old heater’s venting pipes. You can purchase a plastic-lined vent pipe, which will help prevent galvanic corrosion. You may also need to install air vents for tankless water heaters.
After you have removed the old water heater, you will need to disconnect the water lines to the old unit. You should also disconnect the power lines. When removing the old water heater, you should be careful to follow manufacturer instructions for draining the unit. If you don’t, the water heater may be damaged. If it is not, you will need to hire a plumber to drain the water heater and replace the damaged components.
You should also be sure to follow any installation instructions that come with your new water heater. You should make sure to use a plastic-lined nipple for hard water, as the metal in the nipples can corrode. Los Angeles Plumber Also, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions on installing the pilot light.