Can You Install Your Own Hot Water Heater

Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation.

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. If a water heater is installed improperly there are many things that can go wrong. Once you make the purchase though the old water heater must be safely removed and the new one installed. By installing the water heater yourself you can pocket the extra money or put it into another home improvement project.

In the case of gas or propane even a minor leak caused by a loose connection could cause a hazard. Codes have changed so the installation of a new water heater should meet current codes for safety purposes. 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. Building jurisdictions in nearly all cities and counties require a permit to replace an existing water heater.

Great article thanks for your story. Mount the tankless water heater securely to the platform. Also water heater warranties of many manufacturers will be voided if the installation is not done by a licensed plumber. A new water heater will cost from 250 to 500 depending on the size efficiency and warranty.

Gives you a sense of accomplishment. Many water heater companies such as ao smith will only approve a warranty claim if the water heater was installed by a qualified professional. More expensive gas water heaters with special venting systems also are available. Choose a location for the new water heater that will allow you to vent it to the outside easily.

Depending on the type of water heater you buy you will be working with gas electricity or propane systems. 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. Now you re ready to begin installing the gas water heater. Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed.

Problems installing a water heater will at a minimum cause some frustration but can also become dangerous. The process wasn t the easiest but it works perfectly and you now have hot water again. The materials you ll need for the installation depend on your situation and local codes. You ve just installed your water heater without the help of a professional.

Reading these warranties before purchasing the water heater will help you avoid invalidating the terms right out of the box. My water heater is leaking and beyond repair and leaning towards installing new one myself. 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.