Nationally, the average water heater repair cost ranges between $120 and $200, although prices can range up to $400 or more. Water heater repair costs will depend on the type of water heater you have (tankless, electric, natural gas, etc.), the source of the problem, the cost for new parts, and labor rates in your area. Common water heater issues include problems with the thermocouple, thermostat, heating element and leaks. Most standard electric water heaters have two thermostats and two elements. One example for the cost to replace a bad thermostat is $185 for parts and labor. Replacing both the thermostat and the heating element could cost approximately $150-$200. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses when the pilot light is burning and signals the gas valve to close if the pilot light goes out. If your thermocouple is bad or corroded, the average cost to clean and repair it could be between $350 and $400. If your water heater has started to leak, it is usually more cost-effective to invest in a new water heater than to repair it, unless youre covered by a warranty.

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The 10 Best Water Heater Installers Near Me (with Free Estimates)

A broken dip tube can mean coldwatergoes into your homeshot waterpipes before being adequately heated. Another cause ofhot water notbeinghotenough is sediment buildup in thewater heatertank.

In other, a water heater thatproduces no hot water may not be getting power, or it may have a tripped limit switch or one or more failed heating elements. First, check the water heaters circuit breaker in the service panel to make sure it hasnt tripped. If it has, switch it off, then switch it back on again.If the heaters breaker did not trip (is on), turn off the breaker, remove the access panel for the upper element on the water heater. Remove the insulation and the plastic safetyguard, being careful not to touch the wires or electrical terminals. Press the red buttonthe high-temperature cutoff reset buttonlocated above the upper thermostat. Replace the safety guard, insulation, and access panel, then turn on the heaters circuit breaker. If that doesnt solve the problem, test each heating element and replace it, if necessary.

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Hot Water Heater Company in Malaysia | Supply | Repair ...

How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater?

Water heaters are an integral part of the plumbing systems in residential homes and commercial buildings. Increasingly, consumers are turning to tankless water heaters for their many benefits. These tankless models use heating elements that are placed in close proximity to where the water will be used. As opposed to a traditional tank storage water heater which uses a steady supply of electricity to store and constantly heat water, the tankless models only heat water as necessary.

The average cost for a propane poweredsingle-point tankless water heater system will be$1,500 - $2,000.

Tankless units can be installed on the interior or exterior of the building near the water use point and no more than 50 ft. from an adjacent power source (typically requiring 220 volts). This means that you will need a tankless heater for every water source. For example, if you have two bathrooms and a dishwasher, you will need three units, unless all three locations are fairly close to one another.

It's important to keep in mind the amount of water that can be heated via a tankless system (2 to 5 gallons per minute for a tankless unit, compared to the capacity of hot water in a traditional system). This is important when considering which system might be right for a building. For example, in a home with multiple people bathing, a washing machine running and perhaps a dishwasher running, all of these items cannot be used together off one unit. You must either install multiple units, or run one water source at a time.

For most single family homes, a whole house water heater will be sufficient, allowing you to have multiple bathers or a washing machine and dishwasher running at once. Both options should be considered to determine which is right for your needs.

Another important aspect to factor in is the expected lifespan of the unit. While traditional water heaters will typically have a lifespan of anywhere between ten and fifteen years, most tankless units can be expected to be in use for over twenty years.

While there are two main types of water heaters, as we've discussed, there are also varying methods for fueling them. The following table lists the costs for each type:

Once the type of unit and fuel have been selected, the plumber remove the old system, if existing, then a new gas line or heat source access and new water lines will be installed. This may include opening some walls or a ceiling, depending on where in your home the pipes run, and where you unit will be located. Ideally, you want the unit fairly close to where the hot water will be used in order to deliver the water in a timely way. Finally, the new tankless water heater is mounted and connected to the previously installed lines.

The average hourly rate for a plumber to complete the installation process is $45-$65, with installation running two to three hours for a total of $90 to $195 for labor alone. Additional costs include other materials needed for installation (heat pumps2, water pumps3, pipes, etc.) and the costs associated with permitting. These may add $250 to $500 to the final cost.

If walls need to be opened, you may need to also include the costs of drywall4 and finishing to the job, as much as $200. Most traditional water heaters sit in a closet for easy access; tankless models may need to have an access door added nearby in case of future issues to allow quick repair. This may need to be installed by a carpenter at a rate of $70 an hour, or a handyman at a rate of $100 to $300 for the project.

The average cost of a tankless water heater installed is around $1,500-$2,000. The cost of a gas-powered tankless water heater costs around $430 without installation.

Tankless water heaters are installed near the point of use, or place where the hot water is needed. A heating element heats the water as it passes through the heater, rather than continuously heating the water like a traditional tank.

Tankless water heaters heat approximately 2-5 gallons of water a minute, which is sufficient for most uses at each point. They typically last around 20 years - about 5 years longer than a traditional heater.

A tankless gas water heater lasts around 20 years, while a traditional gas water heater lasts about 15.

A tankless hot water heater is a heating element installed near the point of use. Water passes through the unit and is heated as needed, rather than continuously, saving on energy bills.

A new tankless water heater costs between $1,500 and $2,000 installed, while a whole house tank costs between $600 and $800. A tankless hot water heater costs around $430 without installation and a traditional heater costs around $440.

More:
Cost to Install a Tankless Water Heater - Fixr.com

If you ask a question to our team of experts How to install tankless water heater Electric? They advise you to follow these steps which are given below:

Step 1: Find the proper amp required for installation:

In this first step, you have to find the proper Amp and watt requirement that need to install this unit. Don't worry buddy just see the level of the unit you will find the watt and volt now divided watt by volt figure you will find the Amp that needs to install your dynamic tankless water heater.

Step2: Circuit Breaker Stress Test:

In case of installation of the electric tankless water heater; the capacity of the circuit breaker is huge concerning factor. So, it important to do the proper stress test of the main circuit breaker. In general, our team of expert found that all the amps power capacity up to 80 percent. For example, if your tank-less water heater unit needs 50 to 60 amps circuit breaker in that case you have to choose (60 X 1.2 = 72 Amps) breaker or more whatever the amps available near to that amps value in the market. So, Please accurately do the math and compare properly cheek your existing circuit breaker if it matches then you do not need to set the new one.

Step3: Cheek the manual properly:

Step 4: Inside wire connections cheek properly:

In general, a tankless water heater unit needs 1 to 6 circuit breaker and wires are connected to those circuit separate terminals. At first, you need to discover how many circuit breaker needs your tankless water heater model. To find out an appropriate number of the circuit breaker, you have check out the manual carefully and set that breaker or breakers according to the manual.

Step 5: If required need to install some additional:

This is true that Electric water heater is not able to heat up the water as fast as a gas heater. Basically, electric heaters use much electricity to serve on demand hot water. Resulting, you have to take initiative to reduce energy consumption. Now you may ask a question in yourself; How I can reduce the energy consumption of a tankless water heater? Dont worry, you can install a tempering tank to preheat the incoming cold water. Basically, tempering tank keeps the lower thermostat setting which will ultimately reduce the energy consumption. On the other hand, if you want to recover the lower water pressure then you have to install a low flow shower heads. But be careful if the water flow moves slowly throughout the pipe then some of the flow sensor sensitive units may not be activated.

Step6: Finalization of installation:

In this step we provide all other steps of works reviews with bullets; what you have to follow to install tank less water heater electric.

Conclusion:

In this part of the best tankless water heater reviews our team of expert actually try to sort out these easy steps that are anyone can able to follow and install a tank less water heater properly. At the same time to get the best performance from electric tankless water heater unit.

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How to install tankless water heater electric? -Tankless ...

Factors that Impact the Cost

The price to install a new water heater will likely be higher if you change fuel sources or switch from a water heater tank to a tankless unit. To lower these additional charges, our trusted professionals will discuss your options and recommend installing your new tankless unit near existing water and fuel sources. This will facilitate ventilation and reduce the amount of extra labor needed. There are a variety of other features that affect the total cost:

The cost of the permitThe amount of work required to bring your plumbing connections up to codeThe size of your new water heater (measured in gallons)The length of the warrantyEnergy efficient certification and other special features on the new unit

Other upfront costs may also be accrued for a tankless model with elite features and a higher efficiency grade. Gas heaters are also historically less expensive than electric heaters to run.

Energy Efficiency and Money Saving

Installing a tankless water heater is a greater upfront investment, but these units can significantly cut the cost of monthly utilities. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that in homes using 41 gallons or less of hot water, on-demand tankless units can conserve between 24% to 34% more energy than tank water heaters.

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Cost to Install a Water Heater - The Home Depot

India's Largest Water Heating Solutions Provider

Through the years Racold has maintained its status as the frontrunner in India's waterheater industry thanks to our tenacity to adapt. We are constantly evolving with the changing needs of the generation and this is clearly seen in the innovation of our solar water heaters, gas water heaters and other state-of-the-art products. Being the recipient of the BEE Energy Award for 9 years in a row and multiple MNRE awards over the last few years alone, cements our status as the country's largest water heating solutions provider.

The initiative to harness the power of the sun helps reduce one's carbon footprint. In addition, our consideration of the rise in households that use gas pipelines reduces the dependency on electricity. These new and improved water heater geysers use state-of-the-art materials and a range of safety functions for both our commercial water heater range as well as those for households. It is this versatile and diverse product range of hot water geysers that make us the country's definitive supplier of water heating solutions today.

Racold is India's most trusted brand of water heaters from the house of Ariston, with a portfolio of premuim quality products that cover the entire spectrum of water heating solutions.

At Racold, our products are a testimony of our commitment towards understanding our customer's needs. This drives every innovation, while our products continue to deliver efficiency and eco-friendly benefits.

Being the leader in the water heater industry since the last five decades, Racold is a brand synonymous with breakthrough innovation, quality water heating solutions and complete customer satisfaction.

Quality hot water from racold enavble physical and emotional transformation.Racold believes in the power of hot shower and its ability to wash away the sorrows of yesterday and be reborn every day.

Racold has been recognized as Indias Most Trusted Water Heater Brand 2016 by Trust Research Advisory (TRA). The survey was conducted across 16 cities, among 20000 brands, grouped across 267 categories, thus making it the most intensive study on Brand Trust across the country. This is the first time Water heaters has been introduced as a sub category under Durables. Racold is the only Water heater brand to receive this recognition.

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Most Trusted Water Heater & Geysers Online in India - Racold

Are you ready to replace your old, bulky, and inefficient tank-style water heater? Today, there is really no need to keep wasting money and energy with traditional water heaters. There are various smarter and more efficient solutions available and electric tankless water heaters are definitely the easiest and the most functional way to satisfy your hot water needs.

We have looked at various tankless water heaters available on the market which run on electricity, and we have chosen 5 models that really stand out. Read on to see our top picks as well as a buying guide that will help you decide on the best electric tankless water heater for your needs. For those who wants to jump straight to our winner, here are our top pick.

5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters Reviewed

1. EcoSmart ECO27 - Best Seller in the Market

Ecosmart ECO27 is one of the most powerful models in the EcoSmart line of water heaters. It can heat up to 6 gallons of water per minute, which is more than enough for a large household. Its even strong enough for large Jacuzzi-style hot tubs. You can really count on this heater to provide hot water when you need it, which is why its considered to be one of the best tankless water heaters on the market.

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This tankless water heater comes with a digital control panel that allows you to adjust the temperature of the water with precision. You can set the temperature to anywhere between 80 and 140 degrees F.

One of the most important features of EcoSmart Eco 27 electric tankless water heater is the self-modulating technology. This means that this water heater is completely energy-efficient. It will automatically adjust the amount of energy it draws to the amount of water you are using, so no energy is wasted. This way, you will not only use less energy, but you will also save money on your electricity bills.

Even though its very powerful, EcoSmart ECO27 is also quite compact and beautifully designed, so it will fit in seamlessly almost anywhere. Furthermore, finding replacement parts for this water heater is very easy. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty. However, the warranty will only be valid if the heater is installed by a licensed plumber and electrician.

2. SioGreen IR260 POU - Best Value for Money

The SioGreen IR260 tankless hot water heater is perfect for a cabin or a small household where you need hot water supply for only one or two people. It is very compact and easy to install, so it will easily fit into any cabinet, bathroom, or kitchen, even if you have very limited space. The dimensions of the unit are 13.5 x 8.5 x 3 inches which makes this SioGreen model one of the smallest models available.

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The Far-infrared technology is what makes this water heater different from most other tankless water heater models on the market. The heating tubes on this heater dont contain any metallic substances. Instead, they are made of Quartz. SioGreen uses these tubes in combination with carbon coating heating elements that create far infrared energy that heats the water inside the tubes. With non-metallic heating tubes, there is no risk of corrosion and the chances of limescale deposits forming are minimal. This makes SioGreen IR26 perfect for areas with hard water.

The IR260 Point of Use model from SioGreen lets you adjust how much power it uses manually. There are four settings, ranging from 10 to 30 amps. It also comes with a water flow regulator which lets you adjust the temperature to the perfect level. Overall, its the perfect unit to use for a single water source.

3. Rheem RTEX-18 - A Simple and Reliable Water Heater

Rheem is one of the most well-known tankless water heater brands. They are known for making functional and durable products. The RTEX-18 is a compact but powerful unit with simple, rugged design. It will provide up to 7 gallons of hot water per minute, which is enough for small to medium-sized households.

This water heater comes with a LED display that tells you the exact temperature of the water coming out. You can adjust the temperature in one-degree increments. The temperature range is from 80 to 140F.

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The heating elements on Rheem RTEX series models are made of copper and brass and they are designed in a way that makes them easy to service and replace. The Rheem RTEX-18 tankless water heater comes with two high-quality immersion heating elements. Furthermore, its a self-modulating water heater which means its able to adjust the power supply to the demand for hot water.

4. Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus - Top Notch Quality

Stiebel Eltron is a German company with a lot of experience in making tankless water heaters. They have been in the business for more than 90 years, so its no surprise they make high-quality and durable products.

Their Tempra series has been carefully designed to provide the best possible performance. All of the water heaters in this series are very functional and feature high-quality electronics. They also come with a hinged cover, which is quite a simple addition, but also very useful, since it allows for easy access.

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Stiebel Eltron has given a lot of attention to details when making the Tempra Plus. What really makes this unit stand out is the option to control the water flow with precision. This results in better and more accurate temperature control, so you will never run out of hot water.

The Tempra Plus tankless electric water heater from Stiebel Eltron is a very compact unit. Its dimensions are 14.5 x 16.625 x 4.625 inches, which means it easily fits just about anywhere. Despite its small size, this water heater is also very powerful and energy-efficient. Thanks to the advanced features, it will provide a constant hot water output even in rough conditions.

This unit also comes with a thermometer that shows the current water temperature on a display. You can adjust the temperature digitally, with only a push of a button. Overall, this is one of the best electric tankless water heaters available on the market.

5. Bosch AE115 PowerStar - Instant Hot Water Under the Sink

Bosch is a German company with a long tradition of excellence. The company was founded in 1886 and today they make a wide range of high-quality household appliances, among other products.

Bosch AE115 PowerStar is a tankless water heater designed for indoor use. It was designed to replace a traditional water heater with a tank that holds 40 gallons and it can be used to provide hot water on-demand throughout your house.

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This tankless water heater is highly energy-efficient with a maximum output of 17.25Kw. This means it can provide up to 2.6 gallons of hot water per minute, depending on the conditions. It will provide 2.3 gallons of hot water per minute when the temperature is set to 105 degrees, which is the ideal temperature for showering. However, 2.3 GPM means that this heater will generally provide enough hot water to keep only one device running at a time. For this reason, it might not be the best solution to provide hot water throughout a household, but its the perfect model to install under the sink for instant hot water.

The AE115 PowerStar water heater is equipped with which protects the unit from overheating and a thermometer that constantly monitors the output temperature. You can control the temperature using a control knob at the bottom of the water heater. The output temperature can be adjusted from 95 to 135 degrees F.

Tankless Water Heater vs Tank Water Heater

It doesnt matter if you are environmentally conscious or you just want to save money - switching from a traditional tank-style water heater to a tankless water heater is definitely a good idea. There are a couple reasons for this. Keep reading to find out more on the benefits of tankless water heater.

Energy Efficiency

First of all, tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, so they waste much less energy than traditional water heaters, even though tankless water heaters use more energy while they are operating.

This means that using an electric tankless water heater will reduce your water-heating bills. If your household uses less than 41 gallons of hot water per day, youll be able to reduce the costs of water heating by as much as 34 percent by switching to a tankless water heater.

However, even if your daily needs exceed 40 gallons of hot water, a tankless water heater is still the more efficient solution.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Second, electric tankless water heaters are not hard to install and require minimal maintenance. They are also much less prone to breakdowns and therefore much safer. Tank-style water heaters store large amounts of water for extended periods of time. This inevitably causes corrosion and limescale deposits over time, especially in areas with hard water.

If you switch to a tankless water heater, you will never have to face this type of problems again. You will never have to deal with replacing a ruptured tank, which can be a real nightmare.

Even when there is a problem, its much easier to find replacement parts for electric tankless water heaters. Actually replacing the parts is also a much simpler process than with tank-style water heaters. You can click here if you are looking for gas type water heaters instead.

Space Saving

Furthermore, electric tankless water heaters can be installed almost anywhere. They take up very little space, so they can fit into any corner or cupboard. You really dont need a designated place in your house for a water heater, as is the case with tank-style water heaters that take up a lot of space. Many tankless water heaters can also be installed on outside walls with the help of an anti-freeze kit. Furthermore, propane tankless water heaters require venting, but the electric ones dont, which makes them even more versatile.

No Hassles

Finally, there is the obvious benefit of endless hot water. If you choose the right size, youll never have to worry about emptying the water heater during a bath or shower again once you go tankless.

Electric Tankless Water Heater Buying Guide

Before you start looking for a tankless water heater its important to weigh out your hot water needs. For example, If you want to be able to run two showers and a faucet at the same time, youll need a water heater with much higher capacity compared to what is needed for running one device at a time.

To determine the right size of water heater for your needs, youll need to consider how many devices you want to run at the same time. Calculate how much gallons per minute all of the devices need together, and youll have the flow rate you need from your water heater. For example, an average faucet would have a flow rate of 1.5 GPM, while a flow rate of a shower head can go up to 2.5 GPM or even higher.

If you dont know the flow rate of your home appliances, there is no need to worry. You can easily determine it yourself by measuring how much water flows out over a certain period of time. Just to give you a general idea, in areas with normal climates, 4 GPM should be enough to run a shower and a faucet at the same time. A tankless water heater with a 7 GPM flow rate will easily satisfy a very high demand for hot water, like running three showers and a faucet simultaneously.

The climate you live in is also a very important factor when choosing a tankless water heater. Youll need to calculate the temperature rise your water heater needs to provide. This will depend on the temperature of groundwater in your area. For example, if the groundwater temperature is 70 degrees F, and you want your faucet to run hot water at 120 degrees, thats a 50 degrees temperature rise. If you live in an area where the groundwater temperature is lower than 60 degrees F, you should keep in mind that your water heater will need much more power to heat up the water to the desired temperature.

All tankless water heaters function in a similar way. Incoming cold water circulates through a heating chamber where it is heated up via the heat exchangers. In electric tankless water heaters, the heat exchangers are usually made of copper. This is because copper is a material with an exceptionally high thermal conductivity. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, like the SioGreen IR260 POU which uses far-infrared technology and heat exchangers made of quartz.

All of the water heaters on our list have a display that tells you the exact temperature of the water coming out of the heating chamber. This is really a necessary feature that every decent electric tankless water heater needs to have together with a mechanism that allows you to control the temperature. The temperature ranges water heaters offer vary, so this is another thing you should consider.

Many electric tankless water heaters also have a self-modulating mechanism. This mechanism allows the heater to automatically adjust to the hot water demand and use just the right amount of power. This way, youll have a stable stream of hot water and no energy will be wasted.

Finally, dont forget to factor in the cost of installation when choosing a water heater. Its much easier to install an electric tankless water heater than a tank-type water heater or a unit that runs on propane. However, youll most likely still need professional help. In some cases, the warranty on your water heater will be voided if you install the unit yourself, so always make sure to check if this is the case.

>> Looking for a suitable tankless water heater to incorporate with your home's floor heating system? Check out this article <<

Final Verdict

Ecosmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater

Which electric tankless water heater should you get? The answer to this question will, of course, ultimately depend on your needs and the intended use. However, if we had to single out one best electric tankless water heater on the market, it would surely be the Ecosmart ECO27. It is not the cheapest unit on our list, but this water heater is definitely worth the investment.

The EcoSmart ECO27 provides up to 6 gallons of hot water per minute, which is more than enough even for large households. Furthermore, it will provide a constant stream of warm water even if the inlet temperature is as low as 37 degrees F, which is really hard to find in electric tankless water heaters. With the sleek design and the precise temperature control, there is really no reason not to love this unit! Finally, no matter which model you choose, we hope this guide has helped you make an informed decision you wont regret.

More:
Best Electric Tankless Water Heater Reviews for 2018

No One Knows Water Heaters Like We DoYou Can Count on Our Specialists!

Our team has 30+ years of experience, and during this time,we have installed more than 100,000 water heaters to absolute perfection. While we are proud of these numbers, its the level of performance at which we operate and our ability to bring families and business owners the comfort and functionality they deserve in their property that really excites us. Water heaters are essential to a fully functioning structure, and their importance prompted us to specialize in their maintenance, repair, and installation.

Youll come across plenty of Jacks of all trades that will do plumbing, HVAC, and water heater services, but we caution you to be wary of service providers who may be spreading themselves a little too thin. To do what we do at the level we do it,we need 100% focus and specialized expertise. Our team is also there 365 days a week, 24/7 to follow up with any immediate repair you may need. We started Payless Water Heaters with the goal ofbeing the best in the business at making people comfortable. Call and see how weve succeeded.

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Los Angeles Water Heater Service | Tankless Water Heater ...

Overview

If you have some basic plumbing experience, you can replace a water heater yourself and save $200 to $400 in plumbers fees. Well show you how to replace a conventional natural gas water heater. The procedure is the same for a propane heater. If you choose a power vented gas model, all the water and gas connections are the same as we show, but the venting steps are different. For more, search for power-vented water heater above. Replacing an electric water heater is a little easier. All the water connections are the same and you dont have to deal with gas piping or venting. For details on situations different from the one we show here (such as electric models, plastic water lines or copper gas lines) search for replace water heater above.

If you have lots of plumbing experience, you might be able to complete this project in half a day. But we recommend you start in the morning so you have plenty of time to get the job done and not leave your family without hot water overnight. Youll need a helper to carry the old unit out and the new one in. Check with your trash hauler or recycling center to find out how to dispose of the old heater.

A new water heater will cost from $250 to $500, depending on the size, efficiency and warranty. The materials youll need for the installation depend on your situation and local codes.

Even if youve worked with plumbing and gas lines in the past, play it safe and contact your local department of inspections. Get a permit (if required), and go over your installation plans with an inspector.

Shut off the gas by turning the handle a quarter turn. In the off position, the handle is perpendicular to the pipe.

Disconnect the gas at the union fitting. Place the larger wrench on the nut and hold the unions collar with another wrench. Start with the wrenches a quarter turn apart.

Cut the cold water line above the old gate valve to make room for a new ball valve. Cut the hot water line at the same height.

To get started, turn off the gas at the valve near the water heater (Photo 1).

If the isolation valve above your water heater is a gate valve (Photo 3), we recommend that you replace it with a ball valve (Photo 4). Be sure to choose a fullport valve. Gate valves often leak or wont close tightly. To replace the valve, youll have to shut off the water at the main valve (usually near the meter). That means your whole house will be without water until you install the new valve. If you already have a ball valve or if you choose to leave the old gate valve in place, you can simply shut it off. That way the rest of the house will have cold water while you work (toilets will still work!).

With the water and gas off, drain the water heater. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, route it to a floor drain and open the drain valve. To allow air into the hot water lines and speed up the draining process, go to the highest faucet in the house and turn on the hot side only (on single-handle faucets, push the lever all the way to the left).

If your valve doesnt look like this one, see Old gas valves can leak.

Disconnect the gas line at the union (Photo 2). Then disassemble the threaded tee and drip leg and remove the nipple from the water heater gas control valve. Dont throw them awayyoull need them for the new water heater. If your gas line is copper or a flexible supply line, just unscrew the nut.

To disassemble the vent piping, remove the sheet metal screws. Wear gloves; the ends of the metal piping are sharp. You can reuse the vent pipes if theyre in good shape. But if you find even slight holes, cracks or corrosion, toss them into the trash. New pipe is inexpensive and leaks can allow deadly carbon monoxide to build up in your home.

Next, cut the copper water lines with a tubing cutter (Photo 3). If you have copper corrugated water lines, simply disconnect the nuts at the water heater. If you have galvanized steel pipes, disconnect unions just as we did with the gas union shown in Photo 2. Also unscrew the blow tube from the temperature and pressure (T&P) valve. You may be able to reuse it on the new water heater.

At this point, the old heater should have drained enough so it can be moved off to the side (with a helper). If the heater isnt draining fast enough, sediment may be clogging the valve. Allow it to drain as long as possible and then move the heater outside so you can remove the drain valve from the tank.

Reconnect the water. Install new valves first so you can turn on the water to the rest of the house. Then install nipples, followed by threaded fittings and stubs of pipe. Hold the final section in place to mark the length.

Make the final connections with slip couplers. Be sure the coupler doesnt slide down as you heat it.

Set the drain pan into place with the opening facing the floor drain. Get someone to help you lift and set the heater in the pan. If youre replacing the isolation valve, solder on the new ball valve next.

Screw dielectric nipples into the new water heater. These plastic-lined nipples reduce corrosion and increase water heater life. Some water heaters come with dielectric nipples already installed (buy a set if yours doesnt have them). Be sure to coat the threads with pipe thread sealant or wrap with Teflon tape. Next, solder female threaded copper pipe fittings to short lengths of copper tubing and set them aside to cool. Tighten the cooled fittings onto the nipples. Then add short sections of pipe below the valves (Photo 4) and make the final connections with slip couplers (Photo 5). You must use slip couplersstandard stopped couplers wont work. For tips on soldering copper pipe, search for solder above.

Thread a blow tube onto the T&P valve. If the old blow tube is too short, you can use 3/4-in. galvanized steel pipe or copper pipe (along with a male threaded fitting). If you use galvanized pipe, cut off the threads on the bottom to prevent someone from capping off the blow tube if the T&P valve leaks.

Connect the vent pipe to the hood with sheet metal screws. Never use a reducer, even if the hoods opening is smaller than the vent pipe.

Snap the new draft hood onto the water heater and secure it with sheet metal screws. Check the installation manual for the recommended diameter vent pipe for your new heater. If the recommended vent pipe diameter is larger than the vent hood opening, dont install a reducer. Measure a straight section of new galvanized vent pipe to rise as high as possible before you install the adjustable elbow (the higher the rise, the better the draft). On any horizontal sections of vent, make sure the pipe slopes down toward the water heater 1/4 in. per foot of pipe. Bend out small sections of the pipe and attach it directly to the vent hood with screws (Photo 6). Then continue installing new vent pipe sections and connect to the flue. Most plumbing codes require a minimum of three screws for each vent pipe joint. For tips on cutting metal venting, search sheet metal above.

Reconnect the gas. Hold back the control valve to avoid damaging it. Then screw the drip leg into the tee.

Measure between the union and the tee and add 1 in. to determine the correct nipple length.

Test for leaks by brushing soapy water onto every connection. If you see bubbles, tighten or reconnect the joint.

Apply gas-rated pipe thread sealant or tape (dont use standard white Teflon tape) to the gas nipple and thread it into the new gas control valve. Tighten the nipple using two pipe wrenches (Photo 7). Assemble the tee and drip leg using the same two-wrench technique.

If the old section of pipe below the union no longer fits, youll need to measure for a new nipple (Photo 8). Make sure you assemble and tighten the gas union before you measure the length for the intermediate nipple. Add 3/4 in. to 1 in. to this measurement and buy a new nipple. When the gas connections are complete, turn on the gas and check for leaks (Photo 9). You can buy leak detector in a convenient spray bottle ($3) or mix your own solution (one part dish detergent, two parts water).

Open the water valves and an upstairs faucet and fill the tank. Leave the faucet open until water flows out. Then shut it off and check the new water connections for leaks. Open the gas valve and light the pilot light following the manufacturers instructions. Youre in for a pleasant surprise with your new water heatermanufacturers have done away with the old match-lit pilot system. Instead of igniting the pilot with a match or lighter, you just push a button.

When the burner fires up, test for backdrafting, which can allow deadly carbon monoxide into your home. Close all doors and windows and turn on kitchen and bath exhaust fans. When the burner has been running for at least one minute, move an incense stick around the draft hood. The smoke should be drawn up into the vent. If not, the exhaust may be entering your home. Turn off the gas and call in a professional plumber.

Finally, set the thermostat to a safe temperature. (For help, search for water heater temperature above.) In about two hours, youll have enough hot water for a well-deserved long shower.

The grease-pack valves found in older homes tend to leak as they age. Even if your local code doesnt require replacement, we recommend you install a ball-type gas valve instead ($10). Replacement isnt difficult; you just unscrew the old valve and screw on the new one. But you will have to turn off the main gas valve and later relight pilot lights. If you dont know how to handle these tasks, call in a professional plumber and expect to pay $80 to $150.

Youll find lots of accessories for your new water heater at the home center. Some are required by local codes; others are just good ideas. Plumbing codes vary, so check with your local inspector.

1. Gas shutoff valveAll codes require a gas valve near the water heater. If you have a grease-pack valve, see Old Gas Valves Can Leak section above.

2. Earthquake strapsThese straps prevent a water heater from tipping over and are required in earthquake-prone areas. $12 per pair.

3. Flexible gas lineA flexible gas line can withstand movement and is usually required in earthquake-prone areas. Theyre easier to connect than steel pipe, but theyre not allowed everywhere, so check with your inspector. $15.

4. Drip legAny dust or grit in the gas line falls into this short section of pipe before it can reach the water heaters control valve. The required length of the drip leg varies.

5. Isolation valveAll codes require a valve on the cold water line. Though not required by codes, a second valve on the hot line makes future water heater replacement easier. $10 each.

6. Flexible water linesThese flexible lines withstand movement and are required in earthquake zones. But you may want to use them just because theyre easy to install. $20 per pair.

7. Overflow panMost plumbing codes require a pan and drain pipe in locations where a leak can cause damage. But installing a drain pan is a good idea for any location. $18.

8. Expansion tankSome codes require an expansion tank to absorb the pressure created when heated water expands. $35.

9. Blow tubeThe T&P valve releases pressure, and a blow tube directs the scalding hot water toward the floor. The required distance between the blow tube and floor is usually 18 in. or less.

New Jersey building codes require a bonding wire be installed between the cold/hot pipes and the gas line. The majority of local codes dont require the bonding wires but they do serve a purpose. According to the experts we spoke with, bonding wires may actually extend the life of the water heater by diverting electrolysis from the anode rod and tankeven on electric models. So whether or not your local code calls for the bonding wire, you may want to install one to get more life out of your water heater. This little project is brain-dead simple. It only costs about $10 and takes about 10 minutes.

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you startyoull save time and frustration.

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Heres a list.

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Water Heater Installation | The Family Handyman

Water heater leaks can occur for a variety of reasons. It may be something as simple as a slightly open drain valve to a severe issue such as a corroded hot water tank. Most of the time, a water heater leaking is due to faulty plumbing connections or valves that have failed. At the very least, a leaking hot water heater is an annoyance. If not properly addressed, this small nuisance can quickly turn into a major problem.

While a small amount of water may seem harmless, it may eventually cause severe water damage to walls, floors, and subfloors if the leak is not taken care of quickly.In the worst cases, the area around the water heater could even experience flooding. What could have been a quick, inexpensive fix has now turned into costly repair bills.

In addition to water damage, serious health issues can arise due to mold and mildew growth in those wet, damp areas. According to the CDC, children, those with severe allergic reactions, or immune suppression are at highest risk of experiencing medical issues from exposure to mold.

With a water heater leak, you want to make diagnosing and fixing the problem a high priority. The leak wont magically go away on its own no matter how much you hope, so read on to learn what you should do.

WARNING: Before reading further, keep in mind that the water inside a water heater is most commonly heated to 125 F and possibly up to 190 F if set to its highest setting. Any water temperature in this range can cause severe injuries and even first degree burns on even the lowest setting. Always take extra precautions to avoid any contact with the heated water.

Obviously, if water is spraying out of pipes connected to the water heater, you have an issue. Its the other signs of water that are often difficult to find the source of leak (if there is one).

Sometimes, normal condensation from the water heater tank, pipes, or a nearby appliance is the culprit if you notice a small pool of water around the base of the tank. This is usually more noticeable during winter months when the inlet water temperature is especially cold or when filling the water heater for the first time. Once the temperature of the water in the tank has a chance to heat up, the outside condensation generally goes away.

If youre convinced its not condensation, closely inspect any plumbing to the water heater, valves, and the tank itself. If the leak is not obvious, use paper towels to wipe down all wet areas and take some time to observe to see if any area shows signs of water. Fortunately, water has to obey the laws of gravity so start from the top and work your way down.

If you still dont see signs of the leak, lay some paper towels in the area you originally found dampness and come back periodically to inspect. If the problem doesnt reappear after a day or two, its most likely nothing to be worried about but its best to keep an eye on it for a bit.

After confirming your water heater is actually leaking, you should immediately turn off the power source before you do anything else. When youre dealing with water and electricity, bad things can (and do) happen. Natural gas has its own dangers as well.

Next youll want to turn off the water source. Your water heater should have a dedicated cold water shut-off valve typically located near where the cold water inlet pipe connects to the tank. This valve will be one of two types:

Note that if you have not yet confirmed that the water heater is the source of the leak, you should leave the water supply ON to help you locate the leak.

If the leak is serious enough where you cannot safely get to the shut-off valve, you will need to locate the main shut-off valve for the house. In cooler climates, the main water line often enters through the floor of the foundation to keep the water from freezing. The main valve is located near this area next to the water meter.

In warmer climates, the main shut-off valve is normally next to the water meter in an outdoor box with an access cover or near the street. You may need a large wrench or curb key to close the valve. Its a good idea for every homeowner to know where the main water shutoff is BEFORE an emergency occurs.

In most cases, determining the location of the leak isnt too difficult since a water heater has a limited number of common failure points. What complicates matters is if an area is hard to see, if the water heater is old, or if condensation is the actual culprit. Here are the most common areas where water heater leaking is found:

The temperature and pressure relief valve (aka: T&P valve or TPR valve) is an important safety device thats a part of every standard electric or gas water heater. This valve is located at the top of the water heater and is connected to a pipe that runs down the side of the tank. Its purpose is to relieve pressure by letting some water out (usually a cup or two) in case the water inside the tank gets too hot.

Water expands when it is heated and the water tank can actually explode if the pressure relief valve is stuck closed. When you suspect a leak from the pressure relief valve, it is either defective, the connection from the T&P valve to the water tank is not watertight, or it is simply doing its job of releasing excess tank pressure. With the later, you dont necessarily have a leak but possibly a more serious issue that should be looked at by a professional. Replacement of a bad pressure relief valve is pretty straightforward.

Examine both the cold water inlet and hot water outlet connections at the top of the water heater. Many times, homeowners will find that one of the pipes or fittings is slightly loose and not watertight. Simply re-tightening with a pipe wrench is often all that is needed to fix the issue. The possibility does exist in older homes that deteriorated pipes are causing water to leak. If you suspect that, then its recommended to call a plumber so they can determine the extent of the damage.

Near the bottom of the tank is the water heater drain valve (usually plastic but also brass). It is used to drain the water tank for maintenance or to remove sediment. Sometimes this valve gets loose and just needs tightening. Other times, the valve may become defective and require replacement (easy DIY job). For a quick temporary fix to a leaking drain valve, simply screw on a garden hose spray nozzle or hose cap.

Not too common, but on electric water heaters, the gasket around the heating elements may become worn or pinched and cause dripping leaks. You will need to open the cover plate(s) on the side of the tank, push aside the insulation, and check around the gasket for any leaks.

Like other appliances, a water heater has a limited lifespan, which is generally about 10-15 years. To see how old your water heater is, youll need to look up its age.

Over time, sediment inside the tank starts to break down the interior of the water tank and rust starts to form. This rust then starts slowly eating away at the tank walls until a leak develops. When an internal leak occurs due to corrosion and deterioration, replacing the water heater with a new one is really the only option. Out with the old and in with the new.

Often, when you feel like your water heater is not heating, its actually due to a water tank leak which allows hot water to escape and be replaced with more cold water.

Once youve determined where the leak is coming from, you need to decide quickly if you want to repair it or replace your old water heater with a new one. Just because you found the leak doesnt mean it will stop leaking by itself. Many repairs or part replacements on a water heater are fairly easy to do yourself but if you have any doubts, please call a professional.

For many, time is money, and even though you have the skills to do it yourself, hiring a plumber is still a better option. If you do decide on making the repairs yourself, see the section below on how to fix a leaking water heater.

If your water heater is over 10 years old, its often best to simply replace it than put more money into repairs and then have it fail a couple years later. While water heater replacement can be done yourself, its highly recommended to let a licensed plumber do the job.

So youve made it this far and have decided you want to fix your water heater yourself. Fortunately, most repairs are pretty straightforward if you have a few basic tools and some patience. That said

WARNING: Do not attempt to repair your water heater unless you feel completely comfortable. With plumbing, a small leak can quickly become a much larger problem resulting in a much more serious leak, flooding, and even water damage. Water heater repairs should only be done at your own risk. If you have any doubt, let a plumber handle it.

There are a couple reasons why the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) could be leaking, making it a common source for the leak.

Most likely, you may have a faulty pressure relief valve or debris inside it are preventing it from operating correctly. This is especially true with older water heaters.

To test, place a bucket or bowl under the overflow tube and pull the tab on the pressure relief valve (so its pointing straight out). This will cause the valve to open and flush out any debris or particles. If the valve still leaks after flushing, the part will need to be replaced. (See:Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Replacement)

If the T&P valve is leaking at the connection to the water tank, you may simply need to tighten the connection. If that doesnt work, Teflon tape should be wrapped around the threaded connection to the tank. Do accomplish that, youll essentially need to follow the same instructions as if you were to be replacing the pressure relief.

The most common cause of leaking pipes at the top of the water heater is due to a loose connection. To fix, simply take a pipe wrench to tighten the connection. If after tightening, it continues to leak, a section of piping may need to be replaced which may require the help of a professional.

>> For more info, see:Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom

If water is running down from the pressure relief valve, through the overflow pipe and to the floor, its possible that too much pressure is being built up inside the tank and the pressure relief valve is doing its job draining some water to relief this pressure. If this excess pressure is not released, the water heater tank could literally explode.

To determine if excessive pressure in the tank is the cause of the leak, turn the water heater thermostat to its lowest setting, turn on the water supply, turn on the power (or gas), and observe your water heater for a short period of time. If water continues to drain out of the overflow pipe to relieve pressure, shut everything off and call a licensed plumber to have them look at it.

This is one of the easiest to fix water heater leaks. First, try tightening the valve connection in case its loose. Otherwise, debris may be causing the valve to not work correctly or the valve is faulty and needs replacement. Test by flushing out the drain valve first. Place an empty container under the heater drain valve (or attach a hose and route it outside) and open the valve for a couple seconds. This will flush out any debris that may have been present. Close the valve and check for leaking.

If the drain valve continues to leak, an easy temporary fix is to screw on a garden hose end cap or hose nozzle to seal the valve. Eventually, you will want to replace the heater drain valve. Unlike the pressure relief valve, the heater drain valve is not a mandatory safety feature so its not urgent that it get replaced right away. But dont forget about it if you use a temporary fix.

Hard to spot since the heater elements typically go through the side of an electric water heater tank and are covered by insulation and an access panel. Over time, the gaskets that seal the water out become worn or brittle and lose their watertight seal and need to be replaced. Follow the instructions on water heater element replacement.

If you have an older water heater and cannot pinpoint as to why it is leaking from the bottom, you most likely have a problem with the tank itself and the leak is due to corrosion of the walls from rust and aging. Because of the high pressure inside a water heater tank, attempting to repair it should be out of the question. At this point, the water heater should be replaced with a new one.

>> For more info, see:Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom

While this page includes the most common sources and fixes for hot water heater leaks, they wont cover every issue. Sometimes, replacing a part will still not fix the leak. In these cases, it could be due to a more serious issue and a professional plumber should be contacted.

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Water Heater Hub