How to Install an Electric Hot Water Heater
July 01, 2007 by
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.
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.
Written by Allen Teal
Experienced writer in online and journal type publications. I have also done home remodelling and construction. I have a pretty good grasp of car repair, personal relationships, parenting... - Full profile
It's smart to keep an eye on your hot water heater and replace it before it dies. It's even smarter to take steps that can help you avoid padded installation fees.
By Wendy Jane Henson | Published 6/1/2006
You can't just walk into your local home center and pick the cheapest water heater from the display. There are a number of crucial considerations to balance when making a buying decision for this essential piece of home equipment.
By Andrew Seltz | Published 1/30/2007
Hot water heaters are essential for homeowners. Here are some tips on how to choose one if you need to replace yours.
By Sunshine Red | Published 9/11/2007
If you do not follow the safety instructions for your water heater, a fire or explosion can occur which may result in property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Here are some basic guidelines to help you out.
By Rachel Pickett | Published 3/15/2006
Read this informative article and learn how you can perform a simple household task that will help save you money on your electric bills, and lengthen the life of your hot water heater tank!
By Kassidy Emmerson | Published 6/20/2007
Normally inexpensive, a thermocouple is standard on hot water tanks. If your thermocouple breaks or you feel it is not working properly, consider replacing it rather than installing a new gas hot water heater.
By Amy Whittle | Published 2/8/2008
A relief valve in your hot water heater insures that it the pressure within the tank will never be too great. For this reason, you should check your relief valve in your hot water heater to make sure that it is working properly.
By Amy Whittle | Published 2/8/2008
|
|
- Replacing a hot water heater is not a really difficult job.
- Make sure the electricity is off to the unit before beginning to disconnect it.
- Check carefully for leaks.
Comments
Type in Your Comments Below
Most Comments Today
-
I Will Be There
Poem of comfort.28 Comments
-
AC Writers, Take Your Mark, Get Set and Go
Writers, here's a great opportunity to learn and grow in the AC community.25 Comments
-
Ghosts, Demons and Spirits in Japanese Lore
Belief in ghosts, demons and spirits has been deep-rooted in Japanese folklor...18 Comments
-
Human Molting
For some species, outer coverings (fur and skin) come and go annually. For hu...18 Comments
-
Post Christmas Deflation Syndrome
Months of shopping, weeks of anticipation and a day of indulgence suddenly co...17 Comments
-
In My Defense
My actions have often been misunderstood, and now even my good friend Pattie...17 Comments
