Do I Need a Permit to Install a Gas Water Heater?
In Murrieta, CA, and most states, obtaining a plumbing permit is a requirement for installing, changing, or relocating any part of a plumbing system. To ensure compliance, check with the local authorities to understand the current permit regulations before starting the installation process.Is Installing My Own Water Heater Dangerous?
It’s important to understand everything that goes into the proper installation of a water heater, especially when it comes to safety precautions and acquiring all of the proper permits. Proper education will not only help you avoid potential injuries but will also prevent costly repairs (or damages) later on. Below are a few of the most common mistakes that homeowners make when attempting to install a water heater on their own.Common DIY Water Heater Installation Mistakes
1. Installing the wrong size
When it comes to installing a water heater yourself, it’s important to know what size tank you’ll need – since the size of the tank will determine the amount of hot water that is available for use. The standard 2-3 bathroom home should do well with a 50-gallon water heater. However, if your household uses more water than average, a larger tank may be better suited for your needs.
Generally speaking, bigger homes typically need bigger water heaters. There are even some homes with several water heaters installed to take care of all their hot water needs. If you install a tank that’s too small for your home’s needs, it will constantly be running to keep up with demand — which will not only add to the water bill but will also cause wear and tear and increase the need for repairs.
Our Pipeline Plumbing Specialists can help guide you through the selection process and determine the right size water heater for your home’s hot water needs.
2. Installing in the wrong location
Unfortunately, you can’t install a water heater just anywhere. Nearly every city has a code for where water heaters are allowed to be installed. Some of the most common forbidden spots include areas such as:
- Storage closets
- Difficult locations to access (attics, etc.)
3. Forgetting a drain pan underneath the water heater
A waterproof drain pan is required to be installed underneath the water heater in almost every state. The pan must be corrosion-proof and be able to function without obstruction.
4. Water heater power and gas shutoffs aren’t visible
No matter what type of water heater you install, the heater must be fully installed and filled with water before applying heat. Applying heat to an empty tank is called dry firing, which is not safe or advisable — flame applied to an empty gas water heater can quickly overheat the tank and cause it to crack.
Additionally, you must be able to see the shutoff switch (or circuit breaker) from where the water heater is located to ensure that the water heater remains off when any work is being performed.
5. Improper venting
Proper venting of gas water heaters is essential for the safety of everyone in your home. When vented correctly, a natural draft draws potentially toxic gasses upwards and discharges them safely outside.
The flue pipe should have a slight pitch, which assures carbon monoxide and other toxic gasses are vented to the outside and can’t build up in the house.
Safe, Professional & High-Quality Water Heater Installations
Pipeline Plumbing & Drain Specialists offer fast, cost-effective installation, repair, and replacement services for water heaters of all types. We service both tank and tankless water heaters and offer guaranteed labor warranties with every service. If you don’t need a new water heater quite yet, prevent future issues and extend the service life of your current heater with routine maintenance. Our team will fully inspect your water heater, flush out sediment and minerals, and test all critical components like thermostats, controls, gas valves, burners, heating elements, and more to ensure its safety and integrity. Contact our team at Pipeline Plumbing & Drain Specialists today for help with your residential water heater needs. We also offer a full range of plumbing services throughout Winchester, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Perris, and the surrounding areas of Riverside County. Mention the coupon below to take advantage of our current water heater special!
