Is your hot water supply unreliable, leaving you with lukewarm showers or, worse, none at all? A failing electric water heater is a significant household inconvenience. While it might seem like a daunting task, replacing your electric water heater is a manageable DIY project with the right guidance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from assessing your current unit to firing up your brand new one. You’ll learn how to safely disconnect your old water heater, properly install a new one, and ensure everything is working correctly, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars on plumber costs. We’ll also cover how to drain an electric water heater, and touch on electric water heater installation costs, and other relevant topics.
- Understanding Your Existing Electric Water Heater
- Safety First: Preparing for Your Electric Water Heater Replacement
- How to Drain an Electric Water Heater
- Disconnecting the Old Electric Water Heater
- Preparing for Your New Electric Water Heater
- Installing the New Electric Water Heater
- Filling the Tank and Checking for Leaks
- Making the Electrical Connections
- Final Steps and Power On
- Why Choose DIY for Your Electric Water Heater Replacement?
- Call to Action
- FAQ - Replacing Your Electric Water Heater
Understanding Your Existing Electric Water Heater
Before you start shopping for a new electric water heater, it’s essential to understand the specifics of your current unit. Most tank-type electric water heaters have a lifespan of about 6 to 12 years. Knowing the age of your current unit will help you determine if it’s time for a replacement.
- Check the Manufacturing Date: Look for a label on your old electric water heater that shows the date of manufacture. This is often a sticker with a series of numbers or letters.
- Find the Installation Date: If possible, locate a handwritten installation date, as this provides a more accurate picture of the unit’s actual age.
- Know Your Specs: Note the size (in gallons) and energy specifications of your existing electric water heater. This information is crucial for selecting the correct replacement. Most electric water heaters have two heating elements, one at the bottom and one at the top of the tank.
- Identify the Type: Determine if your current heater is a standard tank-type or a more advanced model. This will help guide your replacement choice.
- Check the Voltage: Determine if your current water heater is 220 volt or 120 volt.
Having these details will ensure you purchase the correct replacement unit and avoid any surprises during the installation process.
Safety First: Preparing for Your Electric Water Heater Replacement
Safety is paramount when dealing with electrical and plumbing systems. Before you begin any work on your electric water heater, carefully follow these crucial safety steps:
- Turn Off the Power: Go to your main circuit breaker or fuse box and turn off the power to the electric water heater. This is non-negotiable.
- Verify Power is Off: Use a non-contact voltage tester to double-check that no electricity is flowing to the electric water heater. This step is absolutely crucial to prevent electrical shock.
- Disconnect and Cap Wires: Disconnect the electrical conductors from the electric water heater and cap them temporarily with wire nuts. Remove the metal clad cable or conduit.
- Run Hot Water: Open the nearest hot water faucet and let it run until the water becomes cool. This will replace the hot water in the tank with cold water, making the draining process safer.
- Turn Off Cold Water Supply: Once the water runs cool, leave the hot water faucet open and turn off the cold water supply valve located above the electric water heater.
These precautions will protect you from electrical hazards and reduce the risk of scalding from hot water.
How to Drain an Electric Water Heater
With the power and water safely off, it’s time to drain your old electric water heater. This will make it much easier and lighter to remove.
- Attach a Garden Hose: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the electric water heater.
- Drain the Tank: Run the hose to a floor drain, outside, or use buckets or a pump to remove the water. Be patient, as it can take a while to drain completely.
- Optional: Replace Shutoff Valve: If your shutoff valve is old or corroded, now is a good time to shut off the main water supply and replace it. This step can prevent future leaks.
Completely draining the tank is essential for a safe and manageable removal process.
Disconnecting the Old Electric Water Heater
With the tank drained, you can now disconnect the plumbing from the old unit.
- Disconnect Water Lines: If your existing electric water heater has union connections, use two wrenches to break those connections. If the pipes are soldered, use a tubing cutter to cut the pipes.
- Clean the Pipes: Before cutting, clean the pipe with a rag to prepare it for soldering later.
- Remove Overflow Pipe: You may be able to remove the overflow pipe from the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) to reuse on the new unit, but it is recommended to replace it.
- Remove the Old Tank: With a helper, carefully remove the old electric water heater. Be prepared for some sediment at the bottom, which will make it heavier than you expect.
Disposal Tip: Check with your local sanitation or recycling company for specific instructions on how to properly dispose of your old electric water heater.
Preparing for Your New Electric Water Heater
Before installing the new electric water heater, you need to prepare the installation space.
- Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the floor where the new electric water heater will be placed.
- Install a Drain Pan: If your plumbing permits, install a drain pan under the new tank. This can prevent significant damage if the electric water heater ever develops a leak.
- Position the New Tank: Carefully place the new electric water heater, ensuring at least six inches of clearance on all sides for easy access to controls and maintenance.
- Level the Tank: Use a level and shims to ensure the electric water heater is perfectly level. This is crucial for efficient operation and to extend its lifespan.
Proper preparation will ensure a smooth and safe installation process.
Installing the New Electric Water Heater
Now for the main part: installing your new electric water heater.
- Install the T&P Valve: This is the most important safety device on any electric water heater. Install a new one. Do not reuse the old T&P valve.
- Attach Heat Trap Fittings: If not already installed, attach the hot and cold heat trap fittings to the tank in the correct direction.
- Reconnect Water Lines: Reattach the hot and cold water supply lines. Flexible braided stainless steel connectors can make this process easier, though soldering copper pipes is also a viable option.
- Install a Vacuum Breaker: Consider installing a vacuum breaker on the cold water line to prevent backflow.
Safety Note: The T&P valve is designed to release water if the temperature reaches 210 degrees or the pressure exceeds 150 psi. This valve is your electric water heater’s last line of defense against overpressure or overheating.
Filling the Tank and Checking for Leaks
With the new electric water heater in place and connected, it’s time to fill the tank.
- Open Cold Water Valve: Slowly open the cold water supply valve to fill the tank.
- Check for Air: You will know the tank is full when water flows steadily from the hot water side of a nearby faucet.
- Inspect for Leaks: Carefully check all connections for leaks. If you find any, you’ll need to drain the water, fix the leak, and refill the tank.
Taking the time to carefully check for leaks will prevent future damage and headaches.
Making the Electrical Connections
With a full tank and no leaks, you can now make the electrical connections.
- Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for making electrical connections.
- Connect Ground Wire: Make sure to connect the ground wire to the ground screw to ensure the heater is properly grounded.
- Adjust Thermostats: To adjust the thermostat, remove the access plate and set it to the desired temperature, typically 120 degrees. If your electric water heater has two heating elements, ensure both are set to the same temperature.
Proper electrical connections are critical for safe and efficient operation.
Final Steps and Power On
With all connections made and the thermostat set, you are now ready to power on your new electric water heater.
- Restore Power: Turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the electric water heater.
- Monitor Performance: Monitor your new electric water heater for the next few days to ensure it is heating water correctly and that no issues arise.
Congratulations, you have successfully installed a new electric water heater!
Why Choose DIY for Your Electric Water Heater Replacement?
Replacing your electric water heater yourself can save you a significant amount of money on plumber costs. The average cost for a plumber to install a new water heater can range from $450 to $1500, depending on your location and the complexity of the job. By taking the DIY approach, you can keep that money in your pocket. Additionally, you’ll gain a valuable skill and a sense of accomplishment.
However: If you are not comfortable working with plumbing or electricity, it’s always best to call a licensed professional.
Call to Action
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FAQ - Replacing Your Electric Water Heater
Here are some common questions people have about replacing an electric water heater:
- How long does a typical electric water heater last?
- A typical tank-type electric water heater lasts between 6 to 12 years.
- What tools do I need to replace an electric water heater?
- You’ll need basic plumbing tools, a non-contact voltage tester, a garden hose, a tubing cutter (if needed), wrenches, and a level.
- Is it safe to replace my own electric water heater?
- Yes, if you follow safety precautions and have a basic understanding of plumbing and electrical work. If not, call a professional.
- What is a T&P valve and why is it important?
- A Temperature and Pressure Relief valve is a safety device that prevents the water heater from exploding due to overpressure or overheating.
- Do I need a drain pan for my electric water heater?
- A drain pan is highly recommended, especially if you do not have a floor drain. It can prevent water damage if the heater leaks.
- What temperature should I set my electric water heater thermostat to?
- The recommended temperature is 120 degrees.
- Can I reuse the old T&P valve?
- No, you should always install a new T&P valve when replacing an electric water heater.
- How do I dispose of my old electric water heater?
- Check with your local sanitation or recycling company for proper disposal instructions.
- What do I do if I find a leak after installing the new electric water heater?
- Drain the water out of the piping, fix the leak, and refill the tank.
- How can I extend the lifespan of my new electric water heater?
- Regularly flush the tank to remove sediment, check the T&P valve periodically, and consider a water softener if you have hard water.
- How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
- The cost of a new electric water heater varies depending on size, brand, and features, but typically ranges from $300-$1500. Professional installation costs can add an additional $450 to $1500.
- What are some of the best electric water heater brands?
- Some popular and reliable brands include Rheem, Bradford White, and A.O. Smith.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide to replacing an electric water heater. Remember to prioritize safety, plan your steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process.