A hot water heater is a home appliance, often taken for granted. That is, until all that comes out of the tap is icy water. When cold water is all that your hot water heater has to offer, call Stanton Plumbing and Gas for immediate action. Below is some valuable information on choosing a new hot water tank, removing your old one, as well as installation and repair advice.
Choosing a new hot water heater
The best replacement unit for a hot water heater is usually a new model of similar capacity and size to the old unit that is being removed. Deciding to opt for a new method of heating, such as electric to gas, or vice versa, becomes somewhat more complicated, and may require a professional’s services.
Several models of hot water heaters offer more efficiency. Demand water heaters eliminate the need for a storage tank. Heat pump water heaters use a source of heat already available, such as a warm room or geothermal options. An indirect water heater uses a space heating system, as does a tankless coil. And solar water heaters use the sun’s power to create warm water. Alternative water heating options, combined with a conventional hot water heater for additional efficiency can be costly. For superior advice, contact Stanton Plumbing and Gas, so that you are making the best decision for your situation.
Important information about removing your old hot water tank
Never smoke during any installation or repair involving a gas heater while the gas line is disconnected. This includes not only areas near the heater, but throughout the entire house.
Exchanging an old hot water heater with a new and similar model requires disconnecting the unit to be changed by closing the water, and shutting off the gas supply. You should also unplug the unit if it is electric. The electric cord may need to be disconnected from the hot water heater, however mark wires, so that the installer can tell them apart later. A gas model requires disconnection of the gas line from the controls of the pilot light, and the line should be capped so that no gas escapes.
Remove as much water from the tank as possible by opening the drain valve at the base of the unit. For homes with no floor drain, an option is to attach a garden hose, and drain the tank. To allow for proper draining, open a hot water faucet elsewhere in the home to air the system.
When the hot water heater is drained, use two wrenches to disconnect the unions (threaded fittings) of the water line pipes. These are located at the top of the tank. Alternatively, use a hacksaw or pipe cutter. When the hot water tank is free from its fittings, remove the unit.
Stanton Plumbing and Gas, are proud members of the Master Plumbing Association. For assistance removing your old water tank, don’t hesitate to call.
Installing your hot water tank
Before installing your new tank, refer to the owner’s manual for installation recommendations and instructions, as some models may have unique features. For gas models, place the hot water heater where it should sit, attach the draft hood, and reconnect the gas lines.
When connecting the hot water heater to the water lines, use threaded flex-connectors if your system doesn’t have PVC pipes. Threaded flex-connectors require the least maintenance, and are the easiest to install. Use plumbers’ tape to wrap all pipe threads for leak prevention.
Once the step of attaching water lines is complete, leave a hot water tap elsewhere in the house open and running, and then open the lines attached to the hot water heater so that the unit will fill. When the tank is full, allow the open faucet to run for a minute more to ensure air isn’t trapped in the system. The system is now ready to have wiring connected for electric supply or gas. The water in the tank will start heating.
I hope you have found these tips on replacing your hot water tank useful. Although it may seem satisfying to do it yourself, a poorly done installation can have major impacts. If in doubt, it always pays to hire a professional. Give us a call, and we can discuss the best option for your situation. To avoid that sinking feeling, phone Brisbane’s leading Plumbing service, Stanton Plumbing and Gas today!