Steps Of The Electric Water Heater Installation Process
A reliable supply of hot water is a modern comfort we often take for granted. When your old unit fails or you decide to upgrade, understanding the installation process is helpful. Knowing what to expect can make the project go smoothly and lead to a safe, long-lasting result. While some experienced homeowners may tackle this job, it often involves complex electrical and plumbing work.
Let us walk you through the typical steps a professional follows during an electric water heater installation. We will also look at the factors that influence the overall electric water heater installation cost. For over 90 years, Aero Energy has been a trusted name for reliable home services, and we believe an informed customer is a confident one.
The First Step: Preparation and Safety
The first step before starting any work is making sure the area is safe. The technician will begin by disconnecting the power to the water heater at the main electrical panel. To confirm there is no electrical current flowing to the unit, they will use a voltage tester as an added safety precaution to avoid electrical shock.
Following that, the technician will shut off the water supply to the unit. A dedicated shut-off valve located on the cold water line leading to the water heater will be closed. If this valve is unavailable, the technician may need to turn off the main water supply to the home. To relieve pressure in the plumbing, they will also open a hot water faucet, such as a nearby sink.
Draining the Old Water Heater
After turning off the electricity and water supply, the old tank needs to be drained. While messy, this step is necessary. A garden hose is attached to the drain valve at the base of the tank, with the other end directed toward a floor drain or outside area.
They will then open the drain valve and also open the pressure relief valve on the side of the tank. This allows air to enter the tank, helping the water flow out completely. Draining a full 50-gallon tank can take some time. This step is important because a full tank is extremely heavy and difficult to move.
Disconnecting the Old Unit
Once the tank is empty, the technician will disconnect it from the home’s systems. Using pipe wrenches, they will loosen the fittings connecting the hot and cold water pipes to the unit. In many modern installations, flexible copper or braided stainless steel connectors are used, which can make this step easier.
After the plumbing is disconnected, they will move to the electrical connections. They will remove the access panel on the old water heater to reveal the wiring. After a final check with a voltage tester, they will disconnect the wires from the terminal blocks inside the unit. The old, empty water heater is now ready to be moved out and disposed of properly.
Placing and Securing the New Water Heater
With the old unit removed, the area is cleared for the new one. The technician will carefully move the new water heater into place. It is important that the unit is sitting level on the floor. They may need to use shims under the base to make sure it is perfectly upright.
If the local building code requires it, the technician will also strap the water heater to the wall. This is an important safety measure in earthquake-prone areas to prevent the unit from tipping over. Even if not required by code, it is often a recommended best practice for safety.
Connecting the Plumbing Lines
Now, the process of connecting the new unit begins. The technician will start with the plumbing. They will often install new dielectric unions on the hot and cold water ports of the new tank. These special fittings help prevent corrosion that can happen when two different types of metal touch, like copper pipes and a steel tank.
They will then connect the water lines. If the existing pipes are in good condition and align well, they may be able to use new flexible connectors for a simple hookup. If the pipes need to be modified, they may need to cut and solder new copper pipes or use push-fit connectors for the perfect, leak-free fit.
The Electrical Hookup: A Job for a Pro
The electrical connection is where professional expertise is most important. The technician will run the correct gauge electrical wires from the junction box on the water heater to the circuit breaker. They will connect the wires to the new terminal blocks, matching the pattern exactly as it was in the old unit or following the new unit’s diagram.
They will make sure all connections are tight and secure. The ground wire must be properly attached for safety. Once the wiring is complete, they will carefully tuck the wires into the junction box and replace the cover before moving on. This is not a step for amateur experimentation.
Filling the Tank and Restoring Power
Before turning the power back on, the technician must fill the tank with water. This is a key step to avoid damaging the new unit. They will close the drain valve on the new heater and open the cold water supply valve. They will leave a hot water faucet open in the house to allow air to escape from the system.
They will wait until water is flowing steadily from the open hot water faucet, indicating the tank is full and all air is purged from the lines. Only then will they go to the electrical panel and turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the water heater.
The Final Checks and Adjustments
After the power is on, the technician will check for any initial operation lights or sounds. They will set the thermostat on the unit to the recommended temperature, usually around 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and save energy. They will then give the unit time to heat the first tank of water.
While the water is heating, they will do a final inspection. They will double-check all plumbing connections for any signs of dripping. They will also make sure the temperature and pressure relief valve is properly installed and has a discharge pipe directed to a safe location near the floor.
Understanding the Installation Cost
When homeowners ask about electric water heater installation cost, they are often surprised by the range. The final price isn’t just for the appliance itself. It includes several components that add up.
The largest part of the cost is usually the labor for the professional’s time and expertise. The price of the new water heater unit varies by brand, capacity, and energy efficiency. Additional materials like pipes, fittings, and the permit required by your municipality also contribute to the total.
It is worth asking your installer for a detailed breakdown. While the initial investment might seem significant, choosing a high-efficiency model can lead to lower monthly bills. In some cases, these efficient upgrades may even qualify for energy efficiency tax credits, which can help offset the overall cost over time.
Key Factors That Influence the Total Price
Several specific factors can cause the final bill to be higher or lower. The most significant one is the type of unit you are replacing. A straightforward swap of a similar model is typically the most affordable. If you are upgrading to a heat pump water heater, the project is more complex and will cost more.
Other factors include your local labor rates and the difficulty of the installation itself. If the new unit requires moving plumbing or electrical lines or upgrading the electrical circuit, the cost will increase. The need for new plumbing repairs and installations to bring the surrounding pipes up to code will also affect the price.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Installing an electric water heater involves high-voltage electricity, water under pressure, and a heavy appliance. A professional makes sure the job is done safely, following all local building codes. This protects your home from the risk of electrical fire or major water damage from a leak.
Many manufacturers require professional installation to keep the product’s warranty valid. A correct installation also guarantees your new water heater runs at its peak efficiency. This can save you money on your monthly energy bills for years to come.
Your Role in a Successful Installation
As the homeowner, you can help the process go smoothly. Before the technician arrives, clear a path from the door to the water heater location. Move any stored items away from the unit to give them plenty of space to work.
Be prepared to discuss your hot water needs. The technician can help you confirm that the new unit’s capacity is right for your household size. After the installation, ask any questions you have about operating the new unit or maintaining it for a long service life.
For families who have relied on us for generations, Aero Energy makes sure a core home comfort like hot water is handled with care and professionalism. A proper installation is an investment in daily comfort and long-term peace of mind.