Water Heater Installation Denver is a complex project that involves gas and electrical systems. Experts recommend hiring a professional to minimize leak risks and costly repairs.
Before beginning the work, double-check that electricity and gas are shut off at the breaker box. Working on an energized circuit can cause severe injury or death. Use a voltmeter or circuit tester to verify power is off.
Electric water heaters are powered by electrical elements that heat the water through a process of resistance heating. The elements are typically metal alloys sheathed in a protective layer to minimize corrosion and extend their lifespan. The heating elements are regulated by thermostats that switch them on and off as the water temperature changes. If one of the thermostats is malfunctioning, it can lead to overheating and insufficient heating. If the elements are corroded, they can’t function properly and may need to be replaced.
A professional plumber will conduct thorough measurements of the installation site before beginning work to ensure that the chosen water heater will fit seamlessly in its new location. They’ll also conduct a home inspection to ensure that the electrical wiring is adequate for the new appliance. It’s important to choose the right-sized water heater to match your household’s hot water needs. A too-small model will struggle to meet demand and will waste energy. An oversized model will use more energy and may have a shorter lifespan.
If your current water heater isn’t serving your household adequately, you’ll need to determine whether the problem lies with the power supply or the tank itself. Shut off the circuit breaker that serves your water heater, then use a non-contact voltage test pen or inexpensive multimeter to check that the electrical wiring is not energized. If it is, you’ll need to shut off the power at the breaker box, drain the water heater, and disconnect all plumbing connections before you can safely remove it.
Most homes already have the 240-volt electrical circuit that powers an electric water heater running from the main service panel. If not, you’ll need a licensed electrician to add the necessary branch circuit and breaker. An electrician will also consult the manufacturer’s installation manual to make sure that the breaker and wires are sized appropriately.
The ground wire on the incoming power line will need to be connected to the green ground screw beneath your water heater’s junction box. Then you’ll need to connect the like-colored wires and wrap each one in electrical tape before leading them to the junction box.
Plumbing
The plumbing aspects of water heater installation are less complex than electrical, but still important. It’s best to work with a professional plumber for the job so it gets done correctly, and complies with local and state codes and regulations.
First, the plumber needs to prepare the area where the new water heater is going. This includes making sure there’s enough space, and that the unit is located in a location that will provide easy access for maintenance. A plumbing service can recommend the right location based on your home’s layout and your hot water consumption habits.
If the heater is being installed in a different location than where it’s currently located, there may be extra work involved to reroute plumbing and venting systems. This can add to the total cost of the project.
Once the location is determined, it’s time to make the water and energy supply connections. This includes connecting the cold water inlet and hot water outlet, using dielectric unions to make it easier to disconnect the pipes in the future. The plumber can also install a temperature and pressure relief valve (also known as the T&P valve), which is designed to protect the water heater by releasing excess pressure when the tank reaches a dangerous level.
As water is heated, it expands, which can cause the plumbing lines to move and leak. To prevent this, plumbers typically install an expansion tank on the cold water line leading to the heater.
The expansion tank can be made of metal or plastic, and the plumber may choose to solder the connections. They may also opt to use Sharkbite fittings, which are simpler and more durable than traditional copper tubing and soldering.
The plumber will also connect the gas line to the new water heater. This will require shutting off the gas supply, removing the sticker on the gas control valve, and attaching the nipple to the valve with two wrenches. The plumber will then turn on the gas to the water heater and test for leaks before turning off the gas again.
Venting
Venting your gas water heater is important for safety and to avoid costly repairs. The fumes from your gas water heater are hot and poisonous, so it’s critical to get them out of the house in a timely fashion. If the fumes aren’t properly vented, they can recirculate inside your home, which is dangerous for you and your family members.
Most standard gas tank water heaters use atmospheric venting, which takes advantage of your house’s natural draft to exhaust the gases out the chimney. The system requires a temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P) to protect the water heater against overpressure. If your new water heater doesn’t have a T&P, you’ll need to install one.
Another option is power venting, which uses an electric fan to create a natural draft. It’s more expensive than atmospheric venting, but it offers greater safety and flexibility. If you’re upgrading to a new water heater that uses powered venting, it’s best to hire a professional installer. It’s not an easy job to install or repair a venting system, and it involves working with electricity, gas, heat and one of the most expensive systems in your home.
A professional will have the experience and tools to work with gas lines safely, ensuring secure connections and a leak-free operation. He or she will also know the specific requirements of your water heater’s brand and local building codes, ensuring that your venting system is up to code.
When installing or repairing a gas water heater, it’s important to follow the instructions exactly. A poorly installed or repaired venting system can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, fire or explosion.
If you decide to do the work yourself, make sure you have all of the necessary tools before starting. You’ll need plumbing and wiring tools, as well as a hammer drill and masonry tools if you’re running the vent through a masonry wall. It’s also a good idea to have your local building department inspect the project before you finish. If the inspector finds problems, you’ll need to have the work redone by a licensed professional.
Safety
A water heater can be an excellent addition to a home or apartment building, saving money on utilities and offering residents fast hot water. However, the process of installing a water heater requires careful attention to detail, adherence to local plumbing codes, and an understanding of electrical and gas safety. Incorrectly installed or faulty parts can lead to fire, injury, and even death. Fortunately, most plumbing codes exist to protect the health and well-being of people living in buildings and homes with a functioning water heater.
Practicing proper water heater safety doesn’t often occur to most homeowners, but the simple steps can help prevent injuries and property damage. For example, the pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature that is designed to open when the tank becomes over-pressurized. It should be set at least 18 inches away from the floor and any flammable material to keep it from being accidentally activated, which could cause an explosion or serious burns.
It’s also important to ensure that the venting system is properly connected and vented to the outside to avoid dangerous carbon monoxide build-up. Regularly check the venting system for blockages or leaks.
Gas lines are another potential hazard that can be deadly if not handled correctly. If you’re working with a gas water heater, you should always hire a professional who has the skills and experience to handle these hazardous connections.
For electric water heaters, you can use a kit that comes with compression fittings or threaded connectors to connect the pipe to the new water heater. You should also follow the instructions on the printed manual that came with your heater to ensure proper installation and safe operation.
Finally, if you’re using PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing in your home, you should review the manufacturer’s literature for specific safety tips when working with this material. PEX is more flexible than copper and is more susceptible to kinking, which can create leaks. It’s also important to remember that PEX must be properly sized to ensure maximum performance and safety. If you’re unsure of what size to use, consider purchasing a PEX kit that includes all the necessary materials and tools for installation.