I cannot keep count how many people come into the store to buy a new water heater without even knowing the answer to these essential questions. Some people even think all water heaters are the same! When I ask customers these questions, some look at me as if I am supposed to know what they have in their house. Unless you've invited me to dinner in the past, I DON'T!
Measure the width and depth of the available space. Measure the height of the old water heater, bot to the top of the jacket AND to the top of the flue vent.
Please, before coming into the store, review these questions and know the answers BEFORE trying to make a purchase. It will save you from possible multiple trips, purchases and returns.
1. Are you replacing a Water Heater in the same location?
Replacing a Water Heater using the same fuel and in the same location is the least expensive type of installation.
2. Is your current Water Heater fuel LP (sometimes called propane or bottle gas), natural gas or electric? 20 or 30 amp?
3. Is there a shut-off valve in the cold water inlet pipe? This will let you shut off the water if the unit leaks. This may be a code requirement and may involve an additional charge.
4. Do you require a Power-Vent model? These have little fans on top to vent the combustion gasses. If you do not have a chimney or flue, or if your venting is PVC, then yes, you do need a power vent.
5. If gas, is there a gas shut-off valve? This will let you shut off the gas to the Water Heater. This may be a code requirement and may involve an additional charge.
6. How large is the vent connector leading to the chimney? Common diameters are 3 and 4 inches. Higher recovery units need a 4-inch diameter. A plumber will know the code for your area.
7. What condition is the vent pipe? The vent connector carries the gases to the chimney. It must be in good condition to prevent flue gases from leaking into the house. If it is PVC, see question 4.
8. What is your location? Mobile home and commercial installations may be more expensive, and require specific models. Check with your plumber.
9. Where is the unit located in your home? An additional charge may apply if more than one person may be required to bring the unit to a second floor or other difficult locations.
10. If the Water Heater is located in the garage, is the tank elevated? Code requires the burner to be elevated when the Water Heater is located in an area that might contain flammable materials. If a Water Heater stand is required, there will be an additional charge.
11. If the unit is in a closet, is there a drain pan? We have drain pans available for installations in areas where a water leak could cause extensive damage.
12. Is your Water Heater accessible? It will take more time to install if other appliances have to be moved in order to access the Water Heater.
13. How large is your current Water Heater? Was your old unit adequate for your needs? Additional installation costs apply for Water Heaters of 52 gallons or larger (these require two installers).
14. What is the height and diameter of the existing unit? Water Heater models come in different heights. Tall, Shorty - 50" or less, etc.
15. Will the new unit be too wide or tall for the available space? Measure the height, depth, and width of the space where you will put your new Water Heater.
16. Would you like the old unit hauled away? We'll do it for only $10.
