Many people would reach out to their local water heater installer because a good water heater is vital in one’s house, whether for cleaning dishes, bathing, or doing laundry. However, knowing where to begin when you install a new water heater can take time and effort.
Before installing a new water heater, you must know what you shouldn’t do. Here are the top mistakes that homeowners commonly make when installing a water heater.
1. Choosing The Wrong Water Heater Size
When shopping for a new water heater, choose one that is adequately sized for your home’s size. Water heaters range in size from less than thirty gallons to more than eighty gallons.
As a general guideline, the size of your water heater should be determined by the number of individuals in your residence. With an inefficient water heater, you risk wasting precious energy by heating water that will not be used. When you own a water heater that is too small, the hot water will frequently be used up while you are still using it, leaving you shivering under cold water.
2. Wrong Placement
When you install a new hot water system, the location of the water heater is critical. When it comes to replacing water heaters, your property or neighborhood may have laws that limit where you can place a water heater, such as attics, beneath specific floors, or near closets.
The implications of not following these rules can be serious, so seek a professional water heater installer if in doubt.
3. Not Being Able to Observe Instructions Carefully
It is a challenging task to install a new water heater. It necessitates a great deal of attention to focus and detail, and you’ll require every instrument to finish the installation securely.
As a result, before you start the installation process, be certain you have read and comprehended your water heater’s instructions. Missing or only partially finishing a step, even if unintentionally, might result in a malfunctioning water heater that can fail and possibly flood your home. This kind of incident might be tough to recover from regarding your home’s structural integrity, so be as vigilant as possible.
4. Wrong Drain Pan or Drain Line Setup
When your water heater overheats or should release pressure, it must be allowed to drain extra water.
To accomplish this, connect your water heater’s drain line to the TPR valve, which needs to empty into a drain beneath. If the water heater is in a location with no drain beneath, you’ll have to place a correctly sized drain pan beneath the tank in that specific location to catch the falling water.
Make sure to do both steps properly to avoid leaks and mismanaged drainage, which can easily damage your home’s structural integrity. Moreover, if unchecked or unnoticed for an extended period, this kind of water damage could result in more serious issues such as mold.
5. Defective Pressure Relief Valve
As stated before, the hot water system in your home will have to discharge excess pressure regularly. This is accomplished through your water heater’s relief valve and release tube. However, the pressure cannot escape if either is not properly installed.
You risk your water heater rupturing or even exploding if you overlook this operation or execute it incorrectly.
6. Having Your New Water Heater Dry Fired
Turning on a new water heater before its tank is full is a common mistake that occurs shortly after installation. This is referred to as a “dry fire,” and such an error can cause damage to your hot water system’s heating components, leading them to burn out.
To prevent this, turn on a hot water faucet in your house and leave it running for a couple of minutes before turning on your new water heater. You can maintain a continuous hot water supply while avoiding expensive repairs.
7. Not Reaching To A Professional Water Heater Installer
On both a practical and symbolic level, having a new water heater installed necessitates a large number of parts that demand close attention. Don’t wait to learn the hard way if you aren’t positive that you can install it properly!
Working with a local water heater installer is the simplest method to ensure your water heater installation is done correctly and safely. In the long term, the peace of mind provided by such a service could be a worthwhile investment.
How to Choose a Water Heater Installer
Choosing a trained water heater installer is crucial to ensuring your water heating system’s best functionality and durability. A knowledgeable and skilled specialist can help you avoid difficulties and save money on energy while also ensuring your safety and comfort. From qualifications and experience to cost and customer feedback, we will highlight the most important factors to consider when hiring a water heater installer.
Avoid Door-To-Door Water Heater Installers
When you answer the door, a uniformed person informs you that your water heater needs to be checked. If you let them, they will almost certainly tell you that the water heater is old and inefficient and must be replaced, even if this is not true. There are many better ways to identify a reputable water heater installer than inviting door-to-door “contractors” into your home.
Qualifications and Certifications
Check the credentials and certificates of any water heater installer before employing them. A qualified professional should have the necessary training and accreditation, which could include certifications from organizations like NATE and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
These credentials demonstrate an installer’s commitment to industry standards and ongoing education, ensuring that the installer is current on the most recent technology and best practices.
Experience
Aside from qualifications, looking into an installer’s industry experience is critical. Experienced installers are more likely to provide accurate estimates, anticipate issues, and install your water heater quickly and efficiently. To evaluate a professional’s experience, ask how long they’ve been in the industry and what kind of water heaters they’ve installed. This might help determine whether they are qualified to handle your unique water heater model and installation demands.
Insurance and Licensing
Any reputable water heater installer should be fully licensed and insured. Licensing ensures that the installer is legally allowed to work in your area and has met certain industry standards. On the other hand, insurance protects you in the event of an accident or damage during installation. Always get confirmation of licensing and insurance before hiring a water heater contractor to avoid any potential worries.
References and Reviews
Among the best ways to evaluate the quality of a water heater installer is to check references and internet reviews. Request a list of previous customers who can vouch for the installer’s work quality and professionalism. Look up what other consumers say about their experiences on websites like Google Reviews and Angie’s List. A pattern of positive reviews may inspire confidence in the installer’s abilities, while a pattern of negative feedback might raise red concerns.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is essential when working with a water heater installer. A professional should be able to lead you through the installation process, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have. Choose a water heater installer that is punctual, patient, and eager to discuss your water heater needs completely. This can aid in ensuring a smooth installation procedure and avoiding misconceptions, which could lead to delays or additional costs.
Flexibility
Consider availability and flexibility when hiring a water heater installer. Inquire about their availability and the speed with which they can complete the installation. You’ll need a professional who can work with you if you have a tight schedule or particular installation requirements. Inquire about their adaptability if unexpected problems arise during the installation process, which may demand rescheduling or more work.
Price and Guarantee
Price is typically an essential issue when hiring a water heater installer. Request quotes from different professionals to compare prices and ensure you get the best deal. Be wary of unusually low bids, which may indicate inexperience or a desire to save money. However, only sometimes choose the highest bidder because a higher price does not always imply higher quality.
It’s also important to ask about warranties on the water heater and installation services. An expert should be able to provide you with a warranty covering any flaws or problems that develop due to their work. This may give you peace of mind while also safeguarding your investment in the long term.
Insurance
In addition to a license, a water heater installation, replacement, or repair contractor must have insurance. Before the technician begins work, request proof of insurance. If the technician is not insured, you may be held accountable for any damages or injuries during the installation.
Protocols and Precautions for Safety
When choosing a water heater installer, safety should come first. Ensure that the hired professional follows all applicable safety regulations and guidelines, such as those established by the (OSHA) Occupational Safety and Health Administration and local building codes. They should also know the safety precautions to be taken when working with gas, electricity, and plumbing systems.
Inquire about the safety precautions and protocols implemented during the installation process, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE) and sufficient ventilation. This will assist in ensuring that your water heater is placed properly and securely, reducing the possibility of accidents or malfunctions.