Can You Install A Gas Water Heater Yourself

The short answer is yes most of the time.

Can you install a gas water heater yourself.

We ll show you how to install your own gas water heater in less than a day. Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation. By doing my own installation i think i saved 500 1 000 dollars. The procedure is the same for a propane heater.

Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed. We ll show you how to replace a conventional natural gas water heater. Note that just one permit may cover both the water heater and plumbing modifications. Can you replace a water heater yourself.

After checking for leaks turn the gas line back off until the installation is complete. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Depending on the type of water heater you buy you will be working with gas electricity or propane systems. By installing a gas water heater yourself you can save several hundred dollars.

To check the venting on your existing unit close all windows and doors and turn on all gas appliances and exhaust fans and turn up the temperature on your water heater for a few minutes. If the job is bigger than you want to tackle you can always hire a professional plumber. Once you make the purchase though the old water heater must be safely removed and the new one installed. The smoke should pull into the hood.

Connect the water supply line to the water heater valves following the manufacturer s instructions. Water heaters tend to last seven to 15 years. If you have some basic plumbing experience you can replace a water heater yourself and save 200 to 400 in plumber s fees. They ll be happy to install your gas water heater and dispose of your old unit as well.

Gas water heaters need proper venting for operation. Turn on the gas bleed the line if necessary and check for leaks. In the case of gas or propane even a minor leak caused by a loose connection could cause a hazard. Now you re ready to begin installing the gas water heater.

If a gas line has to be added or relocated then a plumbing permit may be required for the modifications or changes. Then hold an extinguished match near the vent hood. But if you re up for the challenge you can save yourself some money by doing it yourself follow the instructions below for some guidance.