subject: How To Replace A Broken Water Heater [print this page] A common plumbing issue is replacing a broken water heater. Badly installed water heaters can be extremely dangerous. If you are not confident attempting such repairs yourself, call upon the services of a plumber to make the necessary code checks, before undertaking the installation safely. The code, will often affect the specific materials, needed to do the job. It is worth firstly finding out which sort of system is in operation, as some run on gas and others are electric.
Emergency plumbers in Melbourne, offer the following advice concerning water heater repairs. Emergency plumbing issues are dealt with, every day of the week with 24 hour coverage to the local Melbourne area. Should a water heater break down, professional assistance will be available.
Water Pipe Construction
Water pipes, connecting to the water heating system, are made of some of the following materials:
Threaded metal.
Copper.
Plastic.
Hot Water Heater Removal and Disposal: Gas or Electricity?
Water heaters will either use gas or electricity. Ensure that the gas or electricity is turned off before attempting any repairs. Firstly, the old, faulty heater needs to be removed safely.
Allow the heater to drain.
The hot water faucet must be opened. This will allow air to pass into the system.
Gas heaters need to have the draft hood separated from the vent pipe.
After checking that the gas is turned off and the pilot light is out, the gas line or cabling should be disconnected.
If the water heater runs on gas, replace the cap to the gas line.
A pipe wrench is used to disconnect the pipe fittings in order to take the pipes apart.
Other pipes will need to be sawn off.
Once the old heater has been disposed of appropriately, the new model can be installed.
Hot Water Heater Installation
Different hot water systems such as those run on gas or electricity will require different approaches. Consider the following points when attempting hot water heater installation:
Ensure an appropriate distance between the new heater, and the necessary piping.
Gas heaters will require a draft-hood to be installed. To do this, insert each leg into the top of the heater.
The vents of a gas heater, should be positioned a vertically as possible.
The vent pipe is connected by screws.
When assembly is complete, the water connections can be made.