Phone:
(701)814-6992
Physical address:
6296 Donnelly Plaza
Ratkeville, Bahamas.
Hot water heater need replaced? Why hire a plumber when you can replace an electric hot water heater yourself and save money. Basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical is all that is required.
When working with electrical and plumbing systems safety should be a priority. Read and understand all manuals that come with the appliance especially warnings before installation begins.
Picking The Right Hot Water Heater
Take note of the water heater you are replacing the make model and gallonage. Then determine if a direct replacement is needed or do you need to upgrade. Has you family grown and a bigger capacity is needed or mabe you want a more efficient water heater.
If upgrading measure the space where the water heater is located so you can find a replacement that will fit in that space.
Determine how much you want to spend for a new hot water heater. A 40 gallon standard electric water heater starts at around $350. Energy efficient water heaters can run as high as $2000 and require professional installation.
Tools and Supplies Needed
• Pipe wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• New water heater unit
• Hot;/Cold water lines
• Pressure relief valve
• Teflon tape and pipe sealant
Is A Permit Required To Replace A Water Heater?
In most cities and counties no as long as you are not changing or adding additional electrical plumbing or doing any structural work. If you are just replacing. hooking up new waterline and reconnecting the electrical power you should be o.k.
Always check with your local building department before starting the job to be sure.
Turn Power Off And Drain The Old Water Heater
Locate your electrical panel for the house and turn off the breaker to the water heater. Place tape across the breaker and write “Don’t Touch” on the tape. Then shut the water supply off at the water heater.
Attach a water hose to the spigot valve located at the bottom of the water heater to drain the water heater. Run the hose outside and open the valve (Caution water will be very hot). Open some faucets in the house by turning on hot side to aid draining.
Removing the Old Water Heater
Once drained with a pipe wrench remove the water lines mark which is hot and cold. Do not reuse the old water lines.
Then disconnect the power from the water heater. Typically the power is connected on top of the water heater. You may need some help removing the old water heater as they are heavy.
If already on ground level use a hand dolly to move and store until you can properly dispose or recycle it. Prepare the space for the new water heater.
Installing the New Water Heater
The new water heater must be place on a level surface. Strap the water heater securely to the wall with approved straps. Install the new water lines using the teflon tape and snug. Install a new correct pressure relief valve. Do not use the old one. Check for leaks when filled. Re-connect the electrical.
Make sure the spigot for draining the water heater is closed. Open the cold water valve to fill the water heater slowly. To remove air open the closest faucet using the hot valve. Check for leaks as the heater is filling. Once filled you can turn on the breaker and power up.
Set water heater temperature as recommended by the manufacturer.
