Replacing A Hot Water Heater In Your Home

Posted on: 17 November 2021

A water heater that has outlived its warranty and has begun to leak should be replaced by a plumber. Besides the amount of hot water loss that you will incur, a hole in a water heater may enlarge over time and result in water pooling on the flooring that comprises the area where the tank is installed.

The Preliminary Steps

Removing a faulty tank requires that the water supply is turned off and the plumbing is disconnected. If you are going to be replacing the unit with a similar water heater, your plumber can utilize the same plumbing components that are in the area where the damaged tank is located.

If you currently own a gas-operated tank, the gas valve will need to be shut off, prior to disconnecting the gas line. The tank will be drained, prior to it being removed from your home. Many plumbers offer an exchange service. This service involves disconnecting faulty equipment and hauling it away. New equipment will be hooked up, prior to a plumber transporting old equipment.

The Installation Process

If you are going to be replacing the unit with an alternate model, some plumbing adjustments may need to be made. This could include the installation of new pipes, flexible or rigid hoses, and fittings. A plumber will take note of the model that you are purchasing and will provide support materials that will aid with the installation of the new tank.

If you are going to be requesting that the same type of unit be installed, the area where the installation will take place should be clean and dry. You can clean up the flooring within the area where the damaged tank was located, once the plumber has emptied and disconnected the tank and moved it outdoors.

Proper Usage And Inspections

Avoid touching the hot water tank or adjusting any of the lines that run to it. Once the new tank is installed, it will not need to be adjusted. Insulating the tank's plumbing may be necessary. Insulation is recommended when a tank is installed in an outdoor shed or another structure that lacks insulation.

The plumber who you hire can secure insulation sleeves or tape around any exposed plumbing materials. If you ever notice that your water supply contains flecks of rust or other debris, the hot water tank should be inspected. A plumber will check the tank for signs of corrosion.

For more information on water heater installation, contact a plumber near you.

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