When the time comes to install a new water heater, it may at first seem like it’s going to be a simple job for the layperson, but when it comes right down to it, there’s a lot more to installing a water heater than meets the eye. Having been in business for more than 20 years, I can say without hesitation that calling in a professional is critically important to getting the job done right. And although some people believe they are pretty handy when it comes to installing appliances, installing a water heater can be extremely challenging.

What are some of the pitfalls about installing a water heater for someone with little experience? To begin with there is the potential of damaging delicate parts, cross threading gas connections, forgetting to elevate the water heater or failing to remember to use earthquake strapping where necessary. These critical elements are all addressed when a professional installs your water heater. In addition, not only are you given all the right options, but a professional will not sway you in a direction you don’t need to go. Instead, the professional will explain any improved features and higher operating efficiencies in the latest water heaters. Plain and simple, when you hire a professional to install a water heater, you’re assured of the proper handling of your new water heater, in addition to proper installation which covers safety features and compliance to state and federal laws.

A non-professional can overlook many steps when installing a water heater, which is why the following are the top 12 reasons why you should always hire a professional.

1. The first and most important reason for hiring a professional is because he or she knows the different brands and which ones are best for each situation. A professional knows how well water heaters work and the importance of proper installation. There are many dangers involved in bad installations, which is why a professional should only be used to install a water heater.

2. Water heaters must comply with stringent standards regarding Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance. Beginning in July of 2003, all conventional 30, 40, and 50-gallon residential gas-fired water heaters required specific compliance, which is something the layperson knows little about. When it comes to oil and gas-fired water heaters, the professional has the knowledge of the gas or oil fuel source as well as an understanding of gas connection supply lines and start ups.

3. When adding a new tub or shower or even adding an entire bathroom, your water heater should be able to meet those additional requirements. As a family grows, the demand for hot water increases, so when installing a water heater, a professional knows how to access the types of hot water heaters that are built for change. A professional uses his expertise for proper sizing, which includes calculating the demands of multiple bathrooms, dishwashers, clothes washers and other important points of use.

4. Safety should always come first. A professional installer knows all about safety, as their knowledge, skill and experience ensures that the right water heater is installed with safety. By having a professional plumber install your water heater, you have the peace of mind that your family is safe and secure.

5. The layperson may not be familiar with strange rattling noises, an odd sulfur smell, or even a reduction in available hot water. A professional installer will be there to make sure everything is in working order, plus when a professional installs a water heater, he is there to back up his work. If anything goes wrong, the professional will take on the responsibility by making sure the job is done correctly.

6.The professional installer knows that for a water heater to work properly, it is critical that it be vented according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Improperly venting a water heater may lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide inside the home.

7. A professional knows about improper installation or how an inadequate valve can cause damage to the water heater or even cause hazardous pressure build-up. When a professional installs a new water heater, you get the most for your money and the satisfaction of knowing the job was completed with expertise and experience you can trust.

8. A professional knows what types of materials and sizes to choose for venting, as well as water inlet and outlet pipes. After several years of good service, a water heater could leak or expel water due to pressure build-up. This could cause damage to floor coverings and other items. A professional will install a drain pan and pipe it properly to a drain to avoid future problems. An understanding of venting as well as draining should be left to a professional.

9. Because water heaters are factory set at a certain temperature, a professional will explain the settings and the dangers of improper use of the water heater’s thermostat. In addition, installation of electric water heaters requires knowledge of the properly rated wiring material as well as the home’s electrical capacity, which means adequate electrical services, is a requirement.

10. With new industry-wide design changes, today’s water heaters are more complicated than ever. Proper installation and service require that water heater manufacturers provide training and education. This type of valuable knowledge is only available to a professional installer.

11. The layperson might not be aware of whether his system is an open or closed water system. Closed systems are subject to thermal expansion and pressure build up. Open systems can become closed when check valves, water softeners or water meters are added. Even if your water heater tank doesn’t rupture from thermal expansion, pressure inside the tank can cause a constriction of the flue tube, causing a back up of combustion gases and carbon monoxide inside the home. Only a professional will know how to address an open or closed water system.

12. Oftentimes special water heaters aren’t sold to consumers. For example, one of the finest systems made is Bradford White’s Defender Safety System, but the public cannot purchase it. In fact, there are thousands of models with important variations and safety features that the layperson will never know about unless a professional is on hand.

In Closing
If your water heater appears to be fine but it just won’t make hot water, a professional can diagnose what may be a simple problem. You may just need an inexpensive replacement part. But even if your water heater is functioning adequately, maybe you’re not getting as much hot water as you need, which means it may be time to upgrade. When it comes to making a decision about a water heater, it’s tough for a retailer or non-professional to advise you, but a professional can give you guidance and explain your options. And because professionals often attend trade association meetings, events sponsored by water heater manufacturers and also subscribe to trade magazines, he or she is the first to know when more efficient models or technology changes are available. In brief, a professional has the education and experience it takes to hone in on his craft. Installing a water heater is one of the things he or she does for a living, so when a professional plumber comes into your home, he knows exactly what to do. Furthermore, in many parts of the country, state agencies and local municipalities have laws and codes governing the installation of water heaters, often stating that a water heater must be installed by a licensed professional. Never take chances when installing a water heater. Do it right the first time by being sure a professional handles the job.

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