Can You Install An Electric Water Heater Yourself

By the diy experts of the family handyman magazine.

Can you install an electric water heater yourself.

Make sure the valve is in the open position and connect it to the supply line using a propane torch and lead free solder. It really isn t as hard as you may think. If you ve never installed a tankless water heater but think it s something you want to try give this article a read and you can determine whether. If you feel comfortable with your skill levels attempt it alone.

Use a level alongside the water heater and level it with shims if necessary. Personally i took this on as a homeowner challenge and a learning experience. When you are doing your own repairs it s important to consider the total cost not just the cost of parts. Electric water heater installation is a great do it yourself task.

If the new water heater is shorter and the old wires won t reach surface mount a 4 in. Or playing video games maybe you should get yo a off da couch and install that water heater yourself. For reasons of safety home repair manuals often advise that you have an inspector review the work you did after you install your own hot water heater. Metal electrical box on the wall or ceiling nearby run the old wires to the box and then run a new section of armored cable or electrical conduit to the water heater.

Attach the blue coded fitting to the cold water inlet and the red coded fitting to the hot water outlet. The average service life of a water heater is between 8 to 12 years. Worn out water heaters leak waste energy and can literally leave you cold. If you have water on the floor or on top of the unit this is different from water leaking from a supply line above the unit you ll probably need a new water heater.

Installing an electric water heater requires a little knowledge about both plumbing and electricity. If the water heater is a gas water heater its very important that the gas line be installed correctly and that it doesn t leak. If you re not afraid of doing some basic electrical work and plumbing you can save yourself some money. To install a tankless water heater there are quite a few steps such as mounting the unit and connecting the gas line obviously not needed with an electric water heater and water line to it.

Take a quick maintenance assessment before embarking on a full replacement. Inspection carries its own fee. This article will show you how to install a new gas or electric water heater yourself and save a ton of money. On the other hand if you would have just sat around watching t v.