The Complete Guide to Water Heater Installation & Maintenance

When your morning shower turns icy, or you hear odd noises from the basement, you know something’s up with your water heater. Water heater failures can strike out of the blue, turning daily routines into emergencies. But with a bit of knowledge—and a solid partner for those tough jobs—you can keep hot water flowing and stress at bay.

At Expert Plumbing, we help homeowners navigate water heater installation, repairs, and maintenance every day. Our licensed team handles everything from gas line installation to leak repair, so you can trust that what you read here is built on real-world experience.

Choosing the Right Water Heater

Selecting a water heater isn’t just about picking the biggest tank or the shiniest model. It’s about matching your home, climate, and lifestyle to the right system. Here’s what matters:

Main Types of Water Heaters

• Tank (Storage) Water Heaters: The classic style. Heated and stored in a large insulated tank. Great for families with steady hot water needs.
• Tankless (On-Demand): Heats water as you use it. Saves space, energy, and delivers an endless stream—until demand outpaces capacity.
• Heat Pump Water Heaters: Pulls heat from the air or ground to warm water. More efficient, but works best in moderate climates.
• Solar Water Heaters: Harnesses the sun’s energy. Upfront costs are higher, but long-term savings shine in sunny regions.
• Indirect Water Heaters: Uses your home’s boiler or furnace to heat water. Efficient if you already heat your home this way.

Considerations for Your Home

• Household Size: More people means more hot water. Undersized tanks leave you cold; oversized units waste energy.
• Fuel Type: Gas, electric, solar, or hybrid? Each has pros and cons. Gas heats water faster but needs safe venting. Electric is simple but may cost more to run.
• Space: Tankless units fit tight spots, while traditional tanks need room to breathe.
• Climate: In freezing climates, insulation and location matter. Pipes and tanks can freeze—leading to leaks or bursts.

Pro tip: Check for ENERGY STAR® labels and always follow manufacturer guidelines for sizing and efficiency.

Installation Process Explained

Installing a water heater isn’t a casual weekend project. There are safety codes, heavy equipment, and the risk of water or gas leaks. Here’s a look at the process:

Step-by-Step Overview

1. Shut Off Utilities: Water and power (or gas) must be safely disconnected.
2. Drain the Old Heater: Prevents spills and eases removal.
3. Disconnect and Remove: Old unit is carefully unhooked from pipes and lines.
4. Place the New Heater: Proper clearance, level, and secure.
5. Connect Water and Gas/Electric: Pipes, venting, and wiring must meet local code (see the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials’ standards).
6. Fill and Test: System is filled, bled of air, and checked for leaks or errors.
7. Set Temperature: Most manufacturers recommend 120°F for safety and efficiency.

Safety First! 🔥

• Always hire a licensed plumber for gas line installation and connections.
• Use certified parts and follow National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54) for gas heaters.
• Water heaters in garages or basements should be elevated per local building code.
• Earthquake straps are required in many regions.

Routine Maintenance Tips

Want your water heater to last? A little care goes a long way. Like changing oil in your car, regular maintenance helps prevent sudden breakdowns.

What You Can Do

• Flush the Tank: Once a year, drain several gallons to remove sediment. Sediment buildup shortens lifespan and reduces efficiency.
• Check the Anode Rod: This “sacrificial” rod prevents tank rust. Replace every 3–5 years, or as needed.
• Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Once a year, open the valve briefly to ensure it moves freely. A stuck valve can lead to dangerous pressure buildup.
• Insulate Pipes: Especially in cold climates. Prevents heat loss and freezing.

For tankless models, descale annually to keep the heat exchanger clear.

Warning Signs and Troubleshooting

Sometimes, your water heater signals trouble before things get urgent. Don’t ignore these early warnings:

• Rusty Water: Orange or brown water from hot taps points to corrosion inside the tank.
• Strange Noises: Rumbling, popping, or banging? Sediment buildup is likely.
• Leaks: Even a small drip at the base can spell trouble.
• Inconsistent Hot Water: Sudden cold spells or lukewarm performance could mean a failing heating element or thermostat.
• Age: Most units last 8–12 years. If yours is older, watch for signs of decline.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

• No Hot Water: Check power, circuit breakers, pilot light, or thermostat settings.
• Low Pressure: Could be sediment in pipes or tank, or a partially closed valve.
• Water Too Hot or Cold: Adjust thermostat, but don’t exceed 120°F for safety.

If basic steps don’t help, call a certified emergency plumbing service. Gas leaks, persistent leaks, or electrical issues aren’t DIY fixes.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Always turn off power and water before inspecting your heater.
• Never block the pressure relief valve.
• Keep combustibles away from gas heaters.
• Follow manufacturer and local safety codes (refer to ASME standards and your utility provider’s guidelines).
• Use only approved parts and connectors.
• For gas line installation near you, ensure your plumber is licensed and familiar with all local codes.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some tasks are safe for handy homeowners. Others? Not so much.

DIY Tasks

• Flushing the tank (with care)
• Insulating accessible pipes
• Testing the relief valve

Always Call a Pro For

• Gas line installation or repair
• Electrical issues
• New unit installation
• Persistent leaks or water pooling
• Any work requiring permits or code knowledge

A misstep with gas or water can cause property damage, health hazards, or worse. Certified plumbers handle the job safely and efficiently—especially in emergency plumbing situations.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you call a licensed plumber, here’s what happens:

• Assessment: Visual inspection for leaks, corrosion, or installation errors.
• Testing: Measuring water pressure, checking electrical and gas connections.
• Code Compliance: Verifying your system meets all building and safety codes.
• Repairs or Replacement: Fixing leaks, replacing faulty parts, or recommending a new unit.
• Cleanup: Old units are removed and disposed of responsibly.

Certified pros follow manufacturer guidelines and local code—no shortcuts. This protects your home, warranty, and peace of mind.

Prevention & Maintenance

A water heater can last over a decade—with the right care.

Yearly To-Do List

• Flush the tank or descale tankless models.
• Inspect the anode rod.
• Test the pressure relief valve.
• Check for leaks or rust.
• Review water pressure (should be between 40–60 psi for most homes).

Extra Steps in Cold Climates ❄️

• Insulate pipes and the tank.
• Check for drafts near the unit.
• Prevent standing water around the base to avoid freezing.

Regular maintenance isn’t just about avoiding cold showers. It keeps energy bills down and your system working when you need it most.

Costs & Time Factors

How much does a water heater project cost? It depends.

• Unit Cost: Tank models are usually less expensive up front than tankless options.
• Installation: Complexity (gas vs. electric, venting, code upgrades) affects labor costs.
• Time: Most replacements take 2–4 hours. New installs (with gas line installation near you or electrical upgrades) can take longer.
• Maintenance: Professional flushes or inspections are usually quick—under an hour.

Remember, emergency plumbing calls may have additional fees for after-hours or urgent service.

When It’s an Emergency

If you see water gushing from your heater, smell gas, or have no hot water in winter, it’s time to act fast. Here’s what to do:

• Shut off the water supply to the heater.
• Turn off power or gas at the main switch.
• Call an emergency plumbing team for immediate help.

Don’t attempt DIY repairs on gas lines, major leaks, or electrical components. Safety first.

FAQ

How long should my water heater last?

Most last 8–12 years. Regular maintenance helps reach the upper end of that range.

What’s the safest temperature setting?

120°F is recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy. Prevents scalding and saves energy.

Is a tankless water heater right for every home?

Not always. Tankless models save space and energy but may struggle with high simultaneous demand.

Can I install a water heater myself?

Only if you’re trained, licensed, and know your local codes. Otherwise, hire a certified plumber.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

Living in a place where winter bites hard? Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on uninsulated pipes and tanks. Here’s how to protect your investment:

• Install in a heated space if possible.
• Add pipe insulation—especially on exterior walls or unconditioned basements.
• Flush your tank before winter to clear sediment that can lead to freezing or cracks.

For areas with mineral-rich hard water, plan more frequent maintenance. Sediment builds up faster, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

Local codes may require specific safety features like seismic straps, drain pans, or venting modifications—especially in earthquake or flood-prone regions.

Hot water shouldn’t be a luxury—or a headache. Whether you need water heater installation, a quick repair, or emergency plumbing at any hour, we’re here to help.

Call Expert Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-837-7735 .