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Why It's a Bad Idea to Install a Water Heater Yourself

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If you’ve ever done DIY home renovation, you know that it can feel rewarding. After all, you can usually save money while improving your home’s appearance or functionality. However, not all DIY home projects come without risks.

One of these risky projects is DIY water heater installation. At After Hour Plumbing & Drain, we know the risks a homeowner can experience by installing their own water heater. We’re here to share why you should consider scheduling a professional water heater replacement instead of attempting this complicated task on your own.

1. Fire Hazards And Explosions

One of the biggest risks of installing your own water heater is the potential for a fire or explosion. Water heaters are powered by either gas or electricity, which can be dangerous if they aren’t handled properly.

A slight imbalance in temperature or pressure within the tank can lead to violent explosions that can cause injuries and property damage. If you aren’t a licensed plumber, it’s best to hire a professional to prevent water heater fires and explosions.

2. Personal Injury

As the installer, you may find yourself in a few dangerous situations if you attempt to install a water heater on your own. A faulty heater installation can leak carbon monoxide, leading to sickness or even death.

Water heaters are also very heavy. Smaller models that hold 40 to 50 gallons of water weigh around 150 lbs. Once the tank is full, the scalding water can burn you if you aren’t careful. Professional plumbers are trained to deal with all of these hazards, preventing you from experiencing any personal injury.

3. Voided Warranty Coverage

When you install a water heater without a plumbing license, you will likely void the warranty on your heater. If the heater has issues in the future, you will have to pay out of pocket for any of the damage or replacement parts you purchase. Most warranties don’t apply to water heaters that are installed by those who aren’t professionals.

4. Potential Legal Code And Guideline Violations

Most homeowners aren’t aware of the laws that must be followed for a water heater installation. You’ll likely need a permit to install this machinery in your town. Many DIYers opt out of obtaining a permit because they view it as a hassle. This can lead to issues when you try to sell your home in the future.

A professional plumber knows the codes and laws they must follow to install a heater, including:

  • Inspections
  • Proper location
  • Thorough system elevations
  • Proper displays of pressure and temperature

Since there are many legal requirements you must follow to protect everyone living inside your home. It’s best to trust a professional plumber to install your heater.

5. Improper Installation

There are many things that can go wrong when it comes to installing your water heater. These issues include poor ventilation, a dysfunctional discharge tube or a missing or corroded drain pan. All of these issues can lead to frustrating and dangerous situations that require professional assistance.

It’s better to save yourself the hassle of dealing with a faulty installation and hire a professional plumber. This way you can protect your home and family from any damage.

Schedule Water Heater Installation In Monterey Today!

If you need a professional plumber to install your water heater in Monterey, After Hour Plumbing & Drain is here to help. You can count on our stellar services to improve your indoor comfort. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

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