Installing an Electric Water Heater: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction:
Installing an electric hot water heater in your garage can be a straightforward task with the right guidance. Follow this detailed guide, courtesy of Eric the Plumber from Water Heating Experts (WHE), to ensure a successful installation, whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or considering professional help. Common electrical water heaters are from Rheem typically 50 gallon
Step 1: Prepare and Ensure Safety
First, locate your home’s electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker linked to the water heater. Use a voltage tester or multimeter to double-check that the power is indeed off to avoid any electrical hazards.
Step 2: Disconnect Existing Electrical Connections
Remove the cover on the water heater’s electrical connections and carefully disconnect the wiring. Ensure that the wires are securely positioned away from your work area, and cap the exposed wire ends for safety.
Step 3: Drain the Water Heater
Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Allow the water to drain out naturally, or use a pump for faster drainage. Open a faucet on the hot water side to prevent air locks, and briefly turn the main water valve to full pressure to clear any sediment, then shut it off.
Step 4: Disconnect the Water Heater
Cut or disconnect the water heater’s piping from your house plumbing. Be cautious not to damage nearby wall structures, especially if you need space to install new valves.
Step 5: Remove the Old Water Heater
Once drained, the old water heater will be lighter but may still require assistance to remove safely. Clean and prepare the area and the exposed pipes for the new installation.
Step 6: Prepare New Connections
Prepare the pipes coming from the wall by cleaning them with sand cloth and applying flux. Make sure all connections are clean before proceeding to solder new shut-off ball valves.
Step 7: Install New Water Heater Connections
Solder female adapters and a male adapter for the Temperature and Pressure (T&P) valve onto the new water heater’s copper risers. Attach these to the water heater, ensuring all threaded connections are sealed with plumber’s tape and pipe dope.
Step 8: Complete Plumbing Connections
Solder the new water heater’s pipes to the existing plumbing in the wall. Ensure all connections are secure and leak-free.
Step 9: Restore the Water Supply
With all plumbing connections secure, turn on the main water supply. Keep a larger faucet open to ensure air is expelled from the system and to clear any residual sediment, which might clog smaller faucets.
Step 10: Connect Electrical Wiring
Connect the electrical wires to the new water heater using new wire nuts, ensuring all connections are tight and secure. Check that the circuit breaker is appropriate for your water heater’s specifications.
Step 11: Activate and Test
Turn on the circuit breaker to power the new water heater. Check for proper operation and ensure there are no leaks or electrical issues. Congratulations, your new water heater is now installed and ready for use!
I appreciate you explaining how to install a water heater but it seems too complicated for me. I just moved into a house and the water heater needs to be replaced. I was thinking about doing myself but it is probably best to call a professional.