Your hot water system installation, whether it is an electrical system or a gas heater, is intended to provide a consistent and dependable supply of hot water to your home.
There are many small details that are frequently overlooked when performing hot water system installation or hot water replacement, so we’ve compiled a list of 5 common mistakes to avoid.
To avoid wasting money, you should avoid making water heater installation mistakes.
Follow this guide if you’re buying a new water heater for the first time. It will help you stay on track with your water heater installation project.
1. Failure to Recognize New Technology
Renewable energy sources are used in new water heating technology. Solar water heaters are a prime example of this.
These heaters use the heat of the sun to heat water for your home. Installing a solar water heater reduces your water heating costs by half.
Certain solar water heaters are ineffective in cold climates.
2. Ignoring Energy-Saving Water Heaters
The cost of a tank water heater has reached an all-time low. The disadvantage is that these heaters require a lot of maintenance and replacement parts. Each repair visit costs approximately $600.
Tankless water heaters use half the energy of tank water heaters and last twice as long. Because they do not have a water tank, there is less sediment in the system to cause rust.
3. Ignoring Installation Instructions
Building codes and installation manuals are available to protect your home and family. Read all of the instructions before beginning a hot water system installation project. Make a list of the tools you’ll need for the project as well.
Missing a single step, such as strapping down the water heater, results in disastrous flooding. Floods promote the growth of dangerous moulds in your home. Mold also consumes porous materials such as drywall.
Permits are required in some counties to install water heaters. The permits ensure that the installer complies with all applicable safety and building codes. Before attempting to self-install a water heater, check with your county.
4. Placing the Water Heater in an Inaccessible Location
In smaller homes, finding space for your water heater can be difficult. This sometimes leads to homeowners installing heaters wherever there is enough space.
When the water heater is difficult to reach, it is not serviced as frequently as it should be. Rust and sediment leaks are caused by neglect.
Here are some pointers on where to put a water heater:
- Keep your water heater no more than 20 feet away from the doorway or crawlspace access.
- Check that the crawlspace opening is large enough for you to enter comfortably.
- Install adequate lighting at the entrance to facilitate maintenance visits.
- In the event of flooding, install a power switch for electric water heaters.
- Installing a gas water heater in an enclosed space that isn’t designed for it is not a good idea.
- Carbon monoxide is produced by gas heaters. If you keep your water heater in a closet, it can poison your family.
5. The Drain Line Is In The Wrong Place
The TPR valve is located on the side of a water heater tank. When the tank becomes too hot or over-pressurized, this valve releases hot water.
To direct the flow of water, connect a drain line to the TPR valve during installation. The drain line should discharge into the nearest floor drain.
Never connect a drain line to a drain pipe. It is possible that contaminated water will back up into the water heater.
6. Refusing to Seek Assistance with Water Heater Installation
It is acceptable to admit that you lack the necessary skills to complete a home improvement project. Installing water heaters necessitates a thorough understanding of plumbing, electricity, and gas. Professionals must spend years learning all of these skills.
Having a professional who knows how to install a water heater come in will save you money. They’re not as prone to making mistakes as a dry fire.
They also know how to deal with any unexpected issues that arise during installation. Could you tell me how to replace corroded supply lines? Most likely, you lack the necessary tools to deal with any unforeseen issue.
ARE YOU READY TO INSTALL A NEW HOT WATER HEATER?
Hot water makes it possible to sanitise your home and dishes. It makes showering more enjoyable. Life is uncomfortable and full of bacteria without hot water.
Water heater installation is a difficult but necessary task. If you’re up for the challenge, keep these costly blunders in mind.
Would you rather have assistance installing your water heater? Our highly trained plumbers are standing by to assist you. No matter what type of water heater you select, our plumbers can install it.
You can install the heater yourself using D-I-Y instruction videos, but avoid the common hot water system installation mistakes listed above. It is best to hire an expert.