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Hooking up a hot water heater is one of the most common home repair jobs there is. However, if you don’t do the obvious things first, problems can arise. If the homeowner who considers him or herself a do-it-yourself type rushes into this project without some prior knowledge, he or she could be in hot water (or without hot water). The best method for installing a new hot water heater is to become informed by reading directions and instructions first. Then, successful completion of the project is a matter of following basic steps in detail.

In fact, this project can be an easy one for just about any homeowner who takes a few minutes to learn about the task and then follows some simple steps. Because the water service to the house (at least to the water heater area) must be shut off, it is essential that the project be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Otherwise, the family may be without hot water until a professional can come in a finish the job. The stress and extra cost of this can be avoided if the homeowner takes great care during the installation.

After the water is shut off, the old water heater can be disconnected and removed. Be very careful, however, because there is usually some hot water left in the tank. This will make the unit heavier and a bit harder to handle. Disconnect the electricity or gas service with care as well. With a good pipe wrench or two, disconnect the pipes. These may also have hot water in them, so be careful with this process.

When disposing of the old water heater, make sure to understand the local and state regulations concerning disposal of appliances and water heaters. Some landfills are regulated to the extent that they cannot accept such items. This may be one of the more difficult steps in the entire project.

If possible, move the new water heater to the location with some assistance and with an appliance dolly or cart. Connect cold and hot water pipes to the same service lines as the old unit. Use extra caution when positioning the new heater so it is not damaged, and to ensure easy access to the natural gas line if necessary. Locate the release valve on the new heater so that the heater will properly release extra heat and pressure from the system. A visual inspection will usually indicate if this valve is in good condition. This is one of the most important features of the new unit.

Connect the new water heater to the power source and gas service last. Always refer to the manual and installation instructions, following each step exactly. Nothing as complicated as air compressors are required. While removing an old water heater and installing a new one is a critical task for a homeowner, it does not have to be difficult. If the homeowner follows instructions carefully, the hot water installation task should be relatively easy.