An Easy Guide to Water Heater Installation
At some point or another many homeowners are faced with the task of having to replace or install a new water heater tank in their home. This may seem like an overwhelming task at first, but with the right tools and instructions, almost anybody can get the job done. Though we recommend leaving this process to knowledgeable plumbers in Mobile, AL, we will still provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to get the job done on your own. Read on to learn how water heaters are installed. Aside from these instructions, we also encourage you to become familiar with building codes and safety regulations in your area to ensure that your home is in accordance with state and local codes.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before getting started, make sure you have all the following tools and materials:
- New water heater
- Water heater stand (may be required by local codes)
- Flexible water supply lines
- Gas supply line or electrical wiring (depending on the power source of your heater)
- Pipe wrench or adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers
- Pipe thread sealant or gas-rated Teflon tape
- Gas leak detector (for gas water heaters)
- Level
- Safety goggles and gloves
- Dolly or hand truck (to move the water heater)
How Water Heaters are Installed by Plumbers in Mobile, AL
Once you have all the tools and materials you need, you are ready to begin this exciting process of installing your new water heater. Follow the steps below for a simple and easy installation.
1. Choose the Right Location
If you’re installing a water heater for the first time in your home, you will need to be sure to choose the right location for the installation. Water heaters should be installed near water fixtures and on a level surface. The area should also be in a spot that promotes good ventilation and is easily accessible for maintenance services.
2. Turn off the Power and Water Supply
Before beginning, many plumbers in Mobile, AL make sure to turn off the power and water supply in the area they will be working on. You can do this by turning off the water and power just to the location or the entire home, depending on what is easier to do.
3. Drain Out and Disconnect Old Unit
If you’re replacing your old water heart, you will need to first drain out the water from it and then disconnect it. Draining out the water is fairly easy! Connect your garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and place the other end of the hose outside or in a drain. Then, open the valve and allow the water to drain out completely. Once all of the water is out, you’ll be able to disconnect and remove the old water heater from the area.
4. Prepare the New Water Heater
With the old water heater out of the way, you can begin working on putting together the new water heater. Quite often, water tanks require some pre-assembly work before placing it in its location. Follow the assembly instructions provided by the manufacturer before placing the water tank in its spot.
5. Connect the Water Supply
When you’ve assembled the water tank, you can begin connecting it to the water supply. You want to ensure that the connections to the water supply lines are tight and secure. Most plumbers in Mobile, AL will recommend using a pipe thread sealant or Teflon tape on the threads as an additional reinforcement to prevent leaks.
6. Install Gas Supply (If Applicable)
If you’re installing a gas water heater, carefully connect the gas supply line using gas-rated Teflon tape. Apply a gas leak detector solution to check for any leaks. If you detect a leak, do not proceed until it is fixed.
7. Connect Electrical Wiring (For Electrical Water Heaters)
If you are using an electrical water heater, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the electrical wiring safely. It may be beneficial to allow a plumber in Mobile, AL or an electrician to do this step for you.
8. Fill the Tank With Water
Once all the connections have been made, you can begin filling the tank with water. Open the water inlet and allow the water flow into the unit. As the water fills, check all the connections to ensure that nothing is leaking. If you do come across a leak, make sure you turn off the water supply and fix those leaks before continuing with filling the tank.
9. Turn on the Water Heater
When the tank is completely full, you can go ahead and turn on the power source to heat the tank. For gas water heaters, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to light the pilot light.
10. Dispose of the Old Water Heater
If you replace your old water heater, you will want to dispose of it properly. Consult your local plumber in Mobile, AL, or the Citizen’s Guide to Hazardous Waste and Recycling in Mobile Country.
Contact Hansen Super Techs for a Fast & Easy Installation
Though the process of installing a water heater isn’t too difficult, it can certainly be made easier with the help of professional plumbers at Hansen Super Techs. Contact us today to get your water heater installed efficiently and at a lasting quality. With such high-dollar investments such as a new water heater, you’ll want only the best plumbers working to install it.