How to Install an Electric Hot Water Heater

An electric water heater is not too terribly hard to install if you know anything about electricity. Start by checking the manufacturer's specification about the amount of power required by the unit that you plan to install. This applies not only to voltage, but to the amount of amps the heater will require for optimum performance. Having installed numerous gas and electric water heaters in residential and commercial locations, coupled with my background in electrical wiring and some plumbing, I have more than enough understanding and experience to guide you through installing your electric water heater.

Most water heaters that you will install require 220/240 volts to drive them. The amp load will range between 30 and 60 with most being either 30 or 45. If you are replacing a currently installed unit, more than likely, you will only need a minor amount of material and skill to accomplish this task.

Start by finding the breaker that powers the water heater. Check it to make sure it is rated with at least enough amps and volts to carry the new load. You will find it almost always is. If it is 110/120 volts or low amp load, you may need to replace it. Turn it off. Unscrew the cover that houses the electrical connections. Use a meter to verify that the power is off at the unit.

Disconnect the wires. Turn off the water supply for the water heater. Using an appropriate size wrench, remove the cold water supply and the hot water outlet. You can now hook a hose to the valve on the bottom of the heater and drain it to the nearest place. If you are at ground level or above, you might want to just let it run out on the ground. Do not let the hot water run where someone might be burned by it.

When the heater is empty, you can slide it out of the way and slide the new one into place. This can be done by one person if you are strong enough, but two people make this a much easier job. Once the new unit is in place, if everything lines up, reconnect it. If not, take measurements for the needed pipe alterations and get the materials to complete the hook up.