Can I Install A Water Heater Myself

Great article thanks for your story.

Can i install a water heater myself.

Begin the gas water heater installation by draining the old water heater tank. It s easy enough to purchase a new water heater from a hardware store. I have good experience and general knowledge electrical engineer degree decades of taking everything apart haha but it definitely helps the confidence knowing other people like me can install the water heater on their own. Rinnai recommends you work with a licensed contractor trained to handle the plumbing gas electrical and venting aspects of installing a tankless water heater.

It really isn t as hard as you may think. If there needs to be electrical modifications many building jurisdictions will allow you to do the modifications yourself if its your own home but a few jurisdictions may require a license electrician to do the work. More expensive gas water heaters with special venting systems also are available. Depending on the type of water heater you buy you will be working with gas electricity or propane systems.

The average service life of a water heater is between 8 to 12 years. If you re not afraid of doing some basic electrical work and plumbing you can save yourself some money. My water heater is leaking and beyond repair and leaning towards installing new one myself. Can i install a rinnai tankless water heater myself.

We believe water heaters should be installed only by professionals. Connect the water supply line to the water heater valves following the manufacturer s instructions. Most residential water heaters cost 150 to 400 for either gas or electric plus 200 to 450 if you have a plumber install it. Your best bet is to leave this job to a licensed professional which is also recommended because your warranty and local building codes may require it.

Turn off the water and gas supply shut off valves to the water heater. After checking for leaks turn the gas line back off until the installation is complete. Turn on the gas bleed the line if necessary and check for leaks. Once you make the purchase though the old water heater must be safely removed and the new one installed.

Turn on the nearest hot water faucet. Having a non licensed professional perform the installation can cause operational and performance issues and could negate the valuable rinnai warranty. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and empty the tank either into buckets a floor drain or an appropriate place outside. An inexperienced installer could choose the improper water heater size install improper vents or valves choose wrong gas line sizing damage delicate parts or many other things that could cause a flood or fire in your home.

Plumbers typically charge 45 to 65 an hour and can usually install a water heater in a day or in 6 8 hours. The short answer is yes most of the time.