Can You Install A Gas Water Heater Yourself

Can you replace a water heater yourself.

Can you install a gas water heater yourself.

The smoke should pull into the hood. Turn on the gas bleed the line if necessary and check for leaks. Gas water heaters need proper venting for operation. Even if you don t need a new water heater right now chances are you will within the next few years.

Once you make the purchase though the old water heater must be safely removed and the new one installed. If yours is getting old this article is also for you. If the job is bigger than you want to tackle you can always hire a professional plumber. 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. Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation. The short answer is yes most of the time. They ll be happy to install your gas water heater and dispose of your old unit as well.

Connect the water supply line to the water heater valves following the manufacturer s instructions. If a gas line has to be added or relocated then a plumbing permit may be required for the modifications or changes. 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. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

The procedure is the same for a propane heater. 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. By installing a gas water heater yourself you can save several hundred dollars. Note that just one permit may cover both the water heater and plumbing modifications.

Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed. Align the water heater to ensure easy access to the burner and controls. We ll show you how to install your own gas water heater in less than a day. After checking for leaks turn the gas line back off until the installation is complete.

We ll show you how to replace a conventional natural gas water heater. If you have some basic plumbing experience you can replace a water heater yourself and save 200 to 400 in plumber s fees. By doing my own installation i think i saved 500 1 000 dollars.