Details To Know Before Having A New Hot Water Tank Installed

If your hot water tank is several years old, it may be time to prepare for a replacement so you're not taken by surprise if the heater fails or starts leaking. Compare water heaters and their features so you know what type you want to buy when the time comes to have a new tank installed. Here are some other things to think about when it comes to a hot water tank installation.

Factors That Affect The Cost

When you start looking at water heaters, you'll see they have different prices. There could be a significant cost difference between a basic tank and a smart tank that has advanced features. Besides the cost of the tank, you'll also need to pay for a permit and possible upgrades to your plumbing system.

If your plumbing is old, it might not be up to code. When a plumber does any work on your existing plumbing, they have to do work that is up to code, and that might mean modifying some aspects of your plumbing, and that could add to the cost.

Also, if you plan to switch from electric to gas or change the location of the tank, that will drive up the cost of the water heater installation. You'll also need to pay to have your old water heater tank disposed of, but this should be included in the cost of the plumbing services.

Details Concerning The Installation

If you buy the water tank yourself, be sure it will fit in the space occupied by your old tank or talk to a plumber about how you can have a larger tank installed. You might also need to buy an expansion tank when you buy the water heater. An expansion tank is often required by code to keep pressure from building in the tank, and if your plumbing is old, you might not have one.

The water pressure in your home should be at the ideal level for operating a water heater. You can test the pressure with an inexpensive gauge connected to a faucet. If the pressure is too high, the plumber might adjust the pressure-reducing valve on your water main or install a new valve if your plumbing doesn't have one.

Your tank might need to have seismic straps installed if you live in an earthquake zone or if you just want to ensure the tank stays stable. Another safety feature your tank needs is a pressure relief valve. Your tank may come with one, but if it doesn't, be sure to have one on hand so the plumber has everything needed to install your water tank and get it working safely.