Home Repair: How to Replace Your Water Heater

Home repair projects can be a great way to save money by maintaining your house and making it more energy efficient.  One project that is certainly a money saver for the do-it-yourself types is replacing your old water heater.  Whether your current model has stopped working or you just want one that is more water and energy efficient, replacing it yourself is a home repair project you can certainly do if you have some basic skills and tools.  

The first thing that you need to do to tackle this home repair project is to remove your old water heater.  It is absolutely essential that you turn off the gas or electricity to the heater before doing this.  If your heater came with a manual, this should tell you how best to remove your brand of heater, or you can look up the model number online.

 

When this is done, disconnect the vent pipe from the hood and disconnect the gas line.  Now disconnect the water piping from the heater and remove the heater from the area.

The next step in this home repair project is to move the new heater into its location.  Position it so that the gas and water lines easily reach.  Install the draft hood for the new heater so that it will properly vent.  Connect the hot and cold water pipes to the new heater using flex connectors. 

 

Ensure that the relief system is installed properly and turn on the water inlet valves to check the new system for leaks.  When you are certain that the system is leak free, turn on the gas line to the water heater to help complete this home repair project.

Home repair is a great way to build your DIY skills and save money, and replacing a water heater is certainly a job you can do by yourself without calling in a costly plumber or handyman.

Subscribe for newsletters &
Get Latest Updates & Offers

Stay
Connected