Can You Install Your Own Water Heater

Most codes or ordinances allow a homeowner to install their own water heater and some jurisdictions allow unlicensed individuals to install water heaters but they still must pull a permit and have it inspected for safety.

Can you install your own water heater.

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. Inspection carries its own fee. However be sure to check your local plumbing codes as the installation must be done properly or it could lead to fines or damage to the rest of the structure. Most residential water heaters cost 150 to 400 for either gas or electric plus 200 to 450 if you have a plumber install it.

Choose a location for the new water heater that will allow you to vent it to the outside easily. More expensive gas water heaters with special venting systems also are available. After installation an inspector will come to ensure the heater was installed correctly. Building jurisdictions in nearly all cities and counties require a permit to replace an existing water heater.

Build a platform with 2 x 4 inch pieces of lumber that will allow you to mount the new tankless water heater about four inches from the wall. The question you need to ask yourself is. Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation. Whether you install a water heater that uses gas or electricity no heat must be applied until the heater is fully installed and filled with water.

The permit often comes with information to help you install the heater safely and according to local codes. You be the judge. Align the water heater to ensure easy access to the burner and controls. Gas water heater 700 paying a pro to install it 400 1 000.

While installing a new water heater has its challenges it s not impossible to do it yourself. Is it worth installing a gas water heater yourself to save several hundred dollars. When you are doing your own repairs it s important to consider the total cost not just the cost of parts. Applying heat to an empty tank is called dry firing which is not what you want to do.

Mount the tankless water heater securely to the platform. Installation costs and labor plumbers typically charge 45 to 65 an hour and can usually install a water heater in a day or in 6 8 hours. Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed. Generally the amount of time stated on a do it yourself manual or instructional video can be misleading.

Yet in the end it is a job that has to be done. Codes have changed so the installation of a new water heater should meet current codes for safety purposes. You should also consider the cost in time and aggravation when you are doing your own repair. Now you can either pay someone to do it for you or you can do it yourself.

Heating elements in electric water heaters must be immersed in water or they will overheat and burn out quickly.