On the day a water heater is replaced, the old unit is usually shut down, drained and removed, and the new one is set in place, connected and tested before hot water is restored. You will likely be without hot water for part of the day, and the work area will need to be clear.
Knowing the general order of the work makes the day less stressful. It also helps you prepare your home and ask the right questions before the installer arrives.
Before the Old Unit Comes Out
The installer will typically look at the space, the existing connections and how the new unit will fit. The water supply to the heater is turned off, and gas or power to the unit is shut off as needed.
The old tank is then drained. Draining can take a while, especially if there is sediment in the tank, and the water needs somewhere safe to go. Once it is empty and disconnected, the old unit is moved out of the space.
Setting and Connecting the New Water Heater
The new unit is placed in position and connected to the water lines. Depending on the type of heater, it may also need to be connected to gas, electricity and a vent. Safety parts, such as the relief valve and its discharge pipe, are set up as required for that unit.
Sometimes the job reveals other needs, such as updated fittings, changes to venting or different connections for a new model. A good installer will explain any changes before going ahead.
Testing and Getting Hot Water Back
After everything is connected, the tank or unit is filled and checked for leaks. The heater is then started and allowed to warm up. A storage tank may take some time to fully heat, so hot water may return gradually.
Before the installer leaves, ask them to show you where the shutoff valves are, what settings were used and what maintenance the new unit may need. Keep the paperwork and model information in a safe place.
How to Prepare Your Home
Clear a path to the water heater and move stored items out of the way. Keep children and pets away from the work area. If the heater is in a basement or utility room in a Bronx multifamily building, the super or property manager may need to arrange access and let other residents know if anyone else will be affected.
Plan to take a shower and run hot water chores before the work begins. Having a few containers of water on hand can also be helpful for the day.
If you are planning a replacement at your Bronx home or building, our water heater installation service can walk you through what to expect. Call (929) 209-6183 to talk about your project.
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