With proper maintenance a gas water heater tank should last between eight to 12 years.
Replacing a gas water heater diy.
If you need to replace a failing gas water heater or install a new one you need a gas supply line a cold water supply line and a flue connection to divert harmful gases.
However if you replace your water heater anode rod before it fails about every five years you can double the life of your water heater.
The key is picking the most efficient water heater large enough to handle your needs.
In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater.
Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat.
In almost all circumstances replacing an existing water heater will require either one or two permits.
Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers.
Insulate the hot water pipes.
In any case when you re planning a water heater replacement play it safe.
We re replacing a natural gas water heater in our demonstration.
When it comes time to replace yours chances are you ll pick the same type of unit either gas or electric.
An electric tank typically offers up to 15 years of quality use while the life expectancy of tankless electric water heaters can surpass 20 years.
Keep in mind that in most situations it s generally best not to switch fuel types gas or electric although sometimes it does make sense.
Clean the gas burner and replace the thermocoupler a safety device that shuts off the gas automatically if the pilot flame goes out.
The steps for replacing a propane water heater are exactly the same and those for an electric water heater are similar.
A few rare cases may also require a third permit.
Many water heaters have an estimated life expectancy of 8 to 12 years.
Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy.
Check your warranty for the most accurate timelines.
This is as easy as heading down to the local planning or building department to ask for one.
We hope this video helps any contractors or homeowners wanting t.
The average life span of a water heater is between 8 and 12 years.
The average service life of water heaters is 8 to 12 years so if yours is entering old age you may want to consider purchasing a new unit read our pick of the best tankless gas water heaters versus repairing your old water heater.
The first permit is for the water heater itself.
In this video we will show you how to replace a water heater and just how easy it really is.
Getting started installing your new hot water tank.