Who doesn’t like to enjoy a steamy shower on cold winter mornings? No one, so installing an electric water heater as soon as possible is important. Although the setup is simple, compliance with the building codes must be considered, where MBC services can help you! In this guide, you will walk through the water heater installation process for the overall hot water system step-by-step.
Installing an Electric Water Heater: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re setting up an electric or gas water heater, this step-by-step guide will simplify the overall process. You’ll forget searching ‘install water heater near me’ and the associated complexities of a hot water system installation or water heater replacement. You can finish the installation in a few hours and take a refreshing shower with warm water straight out of your recently installed gas heater.
So without any further ado, let’s begin.
Step 1: Position and Secure the Water Heater
It’s time to think of positioning a water heater in an appropriate place. If you have not already thought of a place for its installation, it’d be better to place the setup near the bathroom or kitchen, as you also have to hang a thermostat alongside.
Next, cut off the valve connection or any water supply to the heater to avoid water wastage; you can do this by either turning it off from the split valves or cutting off its general supply.
Step 2: Start the Installation Process
Here comes the central part: place the water heater setup where you want to install it for the long term, and start drilling holes in the adjacent locations. First, measure the distance from the bottom to the top of the heater horizontally and vertically, and mark the points to drill holes later.
When you’re done marking the points, start drilling the holes. Use chemical plugs to hold the system firmly as required for better results.
Pro Tip: The plugs must be 10 mm thick and accompanied by their washers and nuts.
Step 3: Connecting the Heater to Your Home’s Plumbing
You may attach two electrolyte-resistant handles on the hot and cold water points at the thermos’ base, then attach the safety valve to the cold water inlet point. Wrapping it with Teflon tape prevents leakage and prevents water damage or loss.
Now, you’ll connect the hoses to the safety valve of the cold water inlet while placing the electrolyzer at the hot water outlet. Thus, the hoses are connected to the square keys of the thermos. In this way, the installation of your heating system with the plumbing will end.
Step 4: Connect the Heater with Power or Gas
This is the final step, in which the heater is connected to the power supply.
| Gas Heater | Connect the gas lines with the heating setup and, using a soap and water solution, ensure no gas leaks. Connect the venting system safely, ensuring it leads outside properly. |
| Electric Heater | Connect the electrical wiring with the terminals as per the instructions. Ensure safety before switching the power back on. |
Step 5: Fill in the Tank and Test the Heater
This is approaching the final stage, where you would fill the tank and test whether the water heater is functioning well enough. If it doesn’t work effectively, contact a professional residential water heater service for expert advice and help.
While in the case of a tankless water heater installation, as there’s no tank, you may test the heating unit itself to see if it’s working efficiently.
Here you go, the hot water system installation has been completed.
Additional Tips for Installing an Electric Water Heater
Keep your Tools and materials handy: It’s better to keep all the tools and the required materials handy before you start the installation process.
Learn the Installation Process, even if Hiring a Professional: Having a basic knowledge of the installation process will keep you in the process.
Have a Basic Knowledge of Local Building Codes: It’ll help ensure your heating system is installed according to local codes.
Choose the Installation Place Wisely: You should consider the installation place while purchasing the heating setup.
Carry out Maintenance every Few Years: It’s better to have a regular cleanup and maintenance once a year for the effective functioning of the hot water system.
Conclusion
The water heating setup installation involves a simple process that involves specific steps. The above guidelines will help you install a heating system yourself, and hiring a professional service will help you be part of the process from beginning to end.
FAQ
What is the water heater installation cost?
The cost of professional water heater installation ranges from $1000 to $2500, while the price of DIY installation could range from $400 to $1000.
Can an electric heater be installed horizontally?
The way an electric water heater is installed depends on its design.
Can I replace my water heaters myself?
The USA has a huge DIY culture, so many people install their water heaters themselves. You can do the same by following these simple steps.
When should I have my water heater maintained?
You should hire a professional inspector every 2-3 years to thoroughly inspect the heater and clean and flush out the water at least once a year to ensure proper functioning.
How long does it take to install a water heater?
It might take 2-3 hours if a professional is installing an electric heater, but it might take 6-7 hours if you’re doing it.