Water Heater Installation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Water heater installation is one of those projects you don’t realize you’re counting on—until you’re shivering under a cold shower. Suddenly, every minute matters. At Alexanders Plumbing, we know how urgent and personal these moments can feel. Getting it right means more than just hot water; it means peace of mind for your family.

Whether you're replacing an old tank or finally making the switch to something new, the process doesn’t have to be a mystery. Let’s walk through what you can expect, how to prepare, and how to make sure your new water heater goes the distance.

Choosing the Right Water Heater

Think of water heaters like shoes. One size does not fit all. Picking the wrong one can leave you cold—or waste money heating water you never use.

• Traditional Tank Water Heaters: These are like trusty boots—reliable, familiar, and they get the job done. They store a set amount of hot water (usually 30-50 gallons for homes). Great for families with steady routines.
• Tankless Water Heaters: Picture a running shoe—sleek, efficient, and only working when you need it. Tankless models heat water on demand, so you never run out. They save space and can trim energy bills, but may require upgrades to your gas or electric lines.
• Hybrid/Electric Heat Pump Models: Like a high-tech sneaker—mixing efficiency with comfort. They use less energy but need more installation space.

Every home is unique. Household size, usage habits, and layout all matter. If you’re not sure, a pro can help you size things up and weigh costs.

Pro tip: For homes with frequent “morning rush hour” showers, traditional tanks might still win the day. If you want endless hot water and lower bills, tankless may be worth the investment.

Pre-Installation Prep: Permits, Shutoffs, and Clearances 📝

Installing a water heater isn’t just a plug-and-play project. Like building a campfire, you need space, safety, and a little paperwork.

Permits and Local Code

Most towns require a permit for water heater installation. This isn’t just red tape—it’s about keeping your family safe and your home up to code. Local ordinances (based on standards like the International Plumbing Code and National Fuel Gas Code) might dictate things like:

• Safety clearances from walls or combustibles
• Pressure relief valve placement
• Proper venting for gas units
• Earthquake straps (especially in some regions)

What to do:
Check with your city or county building department. Some areas require inspections after installation.

Preparing Your Space

Before installation day, here’s what helps:

• Clear the Area: Make sure there’s a path for moving the old and new units in and out. Remove boxes, laundry, or clutter from around the water heater.
• Shutoff Locations: Know where your main water shutoff is. If your heater is gas, know where the gas shutoff valve is too.
• Electric Panel: Find out which breaker controls the heater, in case it needs to be switched off.

Disposal of Old Unit

Most installers will remove the old heater for you, but ask ahead of time. If you’re handling it yourself, check with your local waste authority—water heaters are heavy, and rules for disposal or recycling vary.

Installation Day Timeline ⏰

Here’s what a typical installation day looks like—from first knock to final walkthrough.

What to Expect

1. Arrival & Review: The installer will verify the model, location, and accessibility. They'll double-check clearances and utility shutoffs.
2. Drain and Disconnect: Water and power/gas are safely shut off. The old heater is drained (this can take a while if it’s full of sediment).
3. Removal: Out goes the old tank. Sometimes, this is the trickiest part—older units can be heavy or corroded.
4. Site Prep: The area is cleaned, and any necessary upgrades (like new venting or gas lines) are completed.
5. New Unit Install: The new water heater is set in place, leveled, and connected to water, power, and venting.
6. Testing: The system is filled, checked for leaks, and powered up. For gas units, connections are checked for leaks with soapy water or a gas detector.
7. Code/Inspection: If your town requires it, an inspector may stop by to sign off on the work.

How Long Does It Take?

Most installations take 2–6 hours, depending on:

• The complexity of your setup
• Tankless vs. traditional (tankless often takes longer)
• Whether upgrades to gas, electric, or venting are needed

Post-Install Maintenance: Maximize Lifespan 🔧

A water heater is like a car—it’ll run longer and stronger with regular tune-ups.

What You Can Do

• Check the Temperature: Set your heater around 120°F (per the U.S. Department of Energy). Hot enough for comfort, safe enough to prevent scalds, and helps slow down mineral buildup.
• Drain a Few Gallons Every 6–12 Months: This flushes out sediment. Sediment is like rust in a bicycle chain—it slows everything down and shortens the lifespan.
• Inspect for Leaks: Look for moisture around the base or rust on pipes. Small leaks can grow into big Water Pressure Issues near you.
• Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Lift the lever for a second. You should hear a rush of air or see a little water—this means the valve is working.
• Check the Anode Rod: Every few years, have a plumber inspect or replace this part. It’s the “bodyguard” that prevents tank corrosion.

Remember: Consult your manufacturer’s manual and follow local code guidelines. If in doubt, schedule preventative maintenance with a licensed plumber.

Tankless vs. Traditional: Quick Comparison

• Tankless: Space-saving, endless hot water, higher upfront cost, longer lifespan (20+ years), may need electrical or gas upgrades.
• Traditional Tank: Lower upfront cost, easier to install, 10–15 year lifespan, limited hot water supply.

If you’re eyeing a tankless upgrade, expect a little more installation time and possible changes to your gas/electric service.

Local Codes and Permits: Safety First

Water heater installation is governed by local plumbing codes (often based on the International Plumbing Code or Uniform Plumbing Code). Codes cover things like:

• Proper venting and combustion air (for gas units)
• Seismic bracing (in earthquake zones)
• Drain pan and overflow piping (to prevent flood damage)
• Backflow prevention (protects your home’s water quality)

Don’t skip permits. They’re a shield, not a hurdle. Inspections protect you from dangerous setups and future headaches when selling your home.

What Happens to the Old Water Heater?

Like an old refrigerator, water heaters can’t just be left at the curb. Most professional plumbers—like Alexanders Plumbing—will haul away and recycle the old unit. If you’re handling it yourself, call your city or a scrap recycler for safe disposal. Some areas offer bulky item pickup or drop-off events.

Practical Safety Checklist Before Installation 🔒

• Clear a path to the installation area
• Know the location of water, gas, and electric shutoffs
• Move pets and children away from the work area
• Make sure the installer has access to the electric panel (if needed)
• Confirm installer is licensed and insured (per state law)

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Changing a water heater isn’t like swapping a lightbulb. It’s more like rewiring a kitchen—plenty can go wrong if you’re not careful.

DIY Risks:

• Gas leaks (serious fire or health risk)
• Improper venting (carbon monoxide hazard)
• Plumbing errors (leaks, water damage)
• Voiding manufacturer warranties

A licensed plumber brings experience, the right tools, and understands local code. For anything beyond tightening a loose pipe, calling a professional is often safer—and can save you money in the long run.

What Pros Do On Arrival

• Confirm the new heater matches your home’s needs
• Protect floors and walls from damage
• Safely turn off gas, water, and power
• Drain and remove the old unit
• Install new heater to code
• Test for leaks and proper operation
• Walk you through controls and maintenance basics

Prevention & Maintenance

Routine maintenance is the secret to fewer emergencies.

• Annual inspection (look for rust, leaks, or corrosion)
• Flush tank to reduce sediment buildup
• Test safety valves
• Check for Water Pressure Issues near you
• Schedule backflow testing if required

Staying ahead of problems means less risk of a cold shower—or a flooded basement.

Costs & Time Factors

Water heater installation costs depend on:

• Type (tankless vs. tank)
• Size and capacity
• Complexity (upgrading venting, relocating unit, or adding new gas/electric lines)
• Local permit fees

On average, expect installation to take between 2–6 hours. Tankless units may take longer if you need new gas lines or venting. Labor is just one part of the total cost—don’t forget permits, materials, and disposal.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

No hot water? Leaking tank? Water pooling on the floor? That’s when emergency plumbing comes into play.

• Shut off water at the main valve right away
• If it’s a gas heater, turn off the gas supply
• Call Alexanders Plumbing for rapid response

Don’t ignore strong odors (like rotten eggs)—that could mean a gas leak. Leave your home and call your gas utility or emergency services.

FAQ

How long will my new water heater last?

Traditional tanks average 10–15 years; tankless models can last 20 years or more with regular maintenance.

Can I switch from gas to electric (or vice versa)?

Yes, but it often requires changes to your home’s wiring or gas lines. A pro can tell you what’s involved.

Do I need a permit for installation?

In most cities, yes. Permits keep your installation safe and legal. Check with your local building department.

What’s the best temperature setting?

Around 120°F, per U.S. Department of Energy guidelines—hot enough for safety, not so hot it wastes energy or risks burns.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

In colder climates, pipes and tanks are more prone to freezing or condensation. Insulating pipes and choosing the right location for your heater can help. Some regions require earthquake bracing or special venting—always ask your installer about local requirements.

If you're in an area with hard water, consider adding a water filtration system or scheduling regular maintenance to reduce mineral buildup.

Ready for reliable hot water—and fewer surprises?
Call Alexanders Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-837-7096 .