FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SACRAMENTO The winter season is upon us, and the snowy and rainy conditions can make for challenging travel as family, friends, food and festive occasions pull Californians all over the state.

As winter settles in, Californians will start to see a whole new set of extreme conditions, said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. Please take care out there on the roads, dont crowd the plows, have patience, give yourself more travel time, and know that were hard at work to clear whatever may be standing in your way.

Below are some recommended actions you can take to reduce the risks to you and your loved ones on the highways. Drivers must use their best judgment in all types of weather.

Know Before You Go:

Before traveling, Caltrans recommends checking weather and road conditions. Caltrans QuickMap is an online resource with real-time traffic flow information, chain control alerts, and closure information. It is available athttp://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/or you can download it as an app for your phone from Google and Apple. Motorists can also call 511 or the Caltrans Highway Information Network at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623) for travel information.

Winter Driving Tips:

Chain Control Information:

All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires, should carry chains when traveling in snowy weather. Highway signs andQuickMapwill indicate when chains are required, and drivers must stop and install chains. Motorists should pull off the roadway completely to install them. If you need help, chain installers may be available to assist for a fee. Please note, chain installers are not Caltrans employees. They are independent business people who are licensed to install chains. Once chains are installed, obey the speed limit of 25 or 30 miles per hour, posted at various locations.

Chain Control Levels:

R-1: Chains, traction devices or snow tires with proper tread depth of 6/32 are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles.

For more information on winter driving, chain controls, and additional resources, visitCaltrans Winter Driving Tips page. Please be safe out there California.

The rest is here:
Don't Crowd The Plow and More Weather Travel Trips From Caltrans - Sierra Wave

Winter sees an increase in the use of heating in our homes, with many of us burning fuels (like oil, coal and gas), so its important to be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Thats why weve teamed up with Gas Networks Ireland to help you keep your home and family safe.

Here are some of the biggest carbon monoxide risks in your home and how you can protect yourself from this silent killer.

Fireplaces, flues and chimneys

If youre planning on lighting the fire this Winter, make sure to have your chimney swept regularly and keep vents and flues clear.

Gas fires, like all fuel burning appliances, should be serviced regularly. Staining, sooting or discolouration around a gas fire or appliance can be indicators of carbon monoxide.

Likewise a strange smell (you cant smell carbon monoxide, but you can smell other fumes produced by combustion) or condensation on windows or walls when the appliance is operational.

If you spot any of these signs, contact a Registered Gas Installer or qualified technician for your fuel type immediately and get it checked before using it again.

Gas cookers and fuel-burning appliances

If you have a gas cooker or any other fuel-burning appliance make sure to get them serviced and regularly maintained by a qualified service agent.

Gas appliances can be serviced by contacting your gas supplier or a Registered Gas Installer.

Other fuel-burning appliances you may have include: an oil or gas heater, a gas fire or a wood-burning stove.

Gas and oil boilers

Its really important to get boilers serviced regularly once a year at a minimum. If you spot a potential problem in the meantime, be sure to contact a registered gas or oil technician.

Flueless gas water heaters and open-flue-type water heaters are considered out-of-date and unsafe. For example, those in bathrooms. If you think you have an older unsafe water heater, call Gas Ireland on 1850 79 79 79 for a free safety check.

Barbecues, lawnmowers and garage-stored cars

Remember all appliances need ventilation to breathe!

Never run a car, lawnmower or other fuel-powered equipment in a confined or poorly ventilated space, e.g. a closed garage.

Never use a barbecue indoors, in a tent or directly under an awning; they can give off carbon monoxide for several hours after use, even if they appear to have gone out. And never use an appliance you think could be faulty or for any purpose it wasnt designed for.

No carbon monoxide alarm

Another big carbon monoxide risk? Not having at least one audible carbon monoxide alarm! Install one this Winter as per the manufacturers instructions and it could save your life.

Ideally, you should have one in every room you have a fuel burning appliance. Plus one within 5 metres (16 feet) of every bedroom to protect you while youre asleep.

For more information, visit theGas Networks Irelandwebsite.

Read the rest here:
What are the biggest carbon monoxide risks in your home? - Irish Mirror

Mod the Sims isn't the only website with tons and tons of custom content and mods available for Simmers everywhere to download and employ in their gameplay, but it is one of the most popular among them. There's a good reason for that, too. Mod the Sims has plenty of custom content and mods ranging from cosmetic mods and custom hair to mods that totally change the way you experienceThe Sims and consequently how your Sims experience their lives.

RELATED: Sims 4: 5 Reasons Arts & Crafts Is The Best Theme Choice (& 5 Why It Should Have Been Happy Haunts)

Whether you're one of those Simmers who has gigabytes upon gigabytes of mods in their game or just getting started in the world of mods, here are the ten best Sims 4 custom content finds on Mod the Sims.

If you're the kind ofSims player who likes building stories with your Sims right down to changing their appearances every so often, this is the kind of gameplay mod you'll love.

Mod the Sims user flerb has made it possible for your Sims to automatically grow beards without you having to go into CAS and adjust your Sim's beard length. This means more time you get to spend actually playing the game rather than fussing over your Sim's appearance in CAS. You even get to pick the color of your Sim's beard for even more realistic gameplay.

Money can be hard to come by inThe Sims 4, or at least it a timely manner. It's no surprise there are plenty of cheats to remedy this problem, andDiscover University introduced the idea of student loans, but what about those Sims who are done with their education and are just looking for their dream home or money to invest in a business?

For those Simmers who don't want to cheat but still want to take their Sim's life in a specific direction, there's scarletqueenkat's SimCity Loans mod.With this mod, your Sim can take out a loan of varying amounts and pay it back over 12, 24, or 36 payments.

This mod is one of those mods that makes gameplay so much easier it's hard to live without it after a while. The UI cheats extension allows players to unlock perks, cheat the aging process, click and drag to fulfill needs, add or subtract household funds, make negative moodlets disappear, and so much more.

RELATED: Ranked: Every Sims 4 Stuff Pack, From The Worst To The Best

Like MCCC, it makes cheating your way through the game so much simpler and user-friendly. You might not even need to type in any cheats with the combination of this mod and MCCC. Make sure you download the right version of the mod if you choose to take a crack at it. The version for Metal Macs and 64-bit systems is free on Patreon.

For those Sims that love outer space, install this dynamic and animated wallpaper designed to imitate the starry sky on a clear night. It comes in four seamless tiles so as not to disturb the flow of the night sky across your Sim's bedroom wall.

Make sure you haveSpa Day installed if you want to use this wallpaper in your next build, as the scripts required for it to run are included in the game pack.If you'd like to see what the wallpaper looks like in action before you download and install it, the user has a YouTube video you can watch.

Though there are plenty of hobbies for your Sims to engage in, especially with additional game content, some Simmers still find the game isn't totally inclusive yet. This is what modders are for!

If you want your Sim to become a master canner, they can with this mod by icemunmun. Not only does this custom content include a fully functional canning station and preserve jars, it provides your sims with a custom canning skill that they can develop by using the canning station to make jams, spreads, and pickles!

This creator has provided another fun hobby for your Sims to engage in if canning isn't really their thingcandle making! This mod not only allows your Sims to create candles in all sorts of shapes and colors, it allows them to talk about candles, research candles, turn candle making into a holiday tradition, and best of all, all of the candles your Sims create at the candle making station give off actual light when your Sim lights them.

RELATED: Sims 4 Discover University: 5 Reasons To Choose Foxbury (And 5 Why You Should Attend Britechester)

These are the kinds of interactive hobbies Simmers love to see in their gameplay.

The next time you have a young adult Sim move out of their parents' house, how nice would it be to have some packing crates available to move some of your Sim's stuff with them? And what if those crates could fit right into your Sim's inventory?

The good news is there is a mod out there with CC packing crates that allow your Sim to do just that. No more juggling the family heirlooms and getting frustrated when that piano doesn't fit in your Sim's inventory and has to go into the household's inventory! Just pack it away in a packing crate and let your Sim be on their way.

WithIsland Living came the Off the Grid lot trait, which allows your Sims to live off the natural resources they're surrounded by instead of relying on pesky things like electricity. This functional solar panel allows your Sims to continue their eco-friendly way of living while still using a little bit of electricity.

RELATED: The Sims 4: 10 Gameplay Features From Previous Games That Are Still Sorely Missed

If youput this solar panel on your lot without the Off the Grid lot trait, it will reduce the amount your Sims have to pay for electricity. The water heater that comes along with these solar panels also helps reduce the amount your Sims are required to pay when the bills come around as well!

Content creators and modders forThe Sims 4are nothing if not creative (and really smart). This is made no clearer than by littledica and their wonderful custom stuff pack designed to make your Sims' kitchens look like they just stepped out of a design magazine. Not only is this pack of custom content marketed like the real thing created by EA itself, it provides plenty of new items for Simmers to use in their next build.

So if you're looking for fresh countertops, cabinets, appliances, floors, walls, chairs, tables, and more, look no further than this custom content stuff pack!

Thisbuildmight not change the way you playThe Sims 4, but it will certainly elevate your Sim's lifestyle.This little collection of buildings is slotted as a nightclub but includes four pubs, discos, a gym, library,nursery for children, guest rooms, living areas, kitchens, and nightclubs galore. There isn't much custom content in this particular build, but for those Simmers who want it, the builder provides links to each one.

Shake things up for a change and install this build in your Sims' world to give them something else to do at night.

NEXT: The Sims 4: 10 Incredible Mansions That Use No Custom Content

NextPokmon: 10 Mechanics Introduced In Gen I That Are Missing Today

Madison Puzey is a freelancer writer and editor based in Georgia, USA. When she's not writing for The Gamer, she spends her time writing, gaming, and watching movies. She graduated from Brigham Young University in 2017 and has loved writing since she was a little girl.

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Mod The Sims: 10 Best Sims 4 Custom Content From The Site - TheGamer

As more cities and states try to cut carbon emissions, some are taking aim at a new target: natural gas inside homes. Buildings, through heating and cooking, use almost a third of the natural gas consumed in the U.S.

In July, Berkeley, Calif., became the first city in the country to ban natural gas in new buildings, starting next year. City officials say new efficient electric appliances have lower carbon footprints than gas-powered furnaces and water heaters.

We need to tackle climate change every way that we can and by doing this, were not asking people to change that much, says Kate Harrison, the Berkeley City Council member who led the initiative.

Cities like San Jose, Sacramento and Los Angeles are developing their own policies to make buildings zero carbon, and a number of cities around the world have to do the same. But opponents say the push to get rid of gas goes against what consumers are asking for, especially in their kitchens.

People love their gas stoves, says Bob Raymer, technical director with the California Building Industry Association. We dont want to force something onto the consumer that makes the consumer feel uncomfortable, or that they just dont like. After all, its their home.

But California has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2045, and about a quarter of the states emissions come from energy used by buildings. To reach its ambitious climate change goals, the state will eventually have to force or entice homeowners to electrify everything.

Swapping for electric

Today, an all-electric home isnt common in California, as Oakland resident Bruce Nilles found out.

Nilles spent his career working on reducing the countrys use of fossil fuels, first at the Sierra Club and then at the Rocky Mountain Institute.

I was thinking a lot about coal, and how do we transition the United States off of coal, and had missed the fact that right in my own home was this big source of fossil fuels, he says.

His two-story Craftsman house had four appliances that ran on natural gas: water heater, furnace, dryer and gas stove.

It never occurred to me that they were a big piece of my carbon footprint, he says.

Nilles decided to switch to electric appliances. Electricity has a lower carbon footprint in California, because the state is investing heavily in renewable energy. In 2018, half of the states electricity came from carbon emissions-free sources, like solar and wind, as well as hydropower and nuclear.

I called three different contractors and all three of them tried to persuade me not to get rid of my gas, Nilles says. Some didnt have experience switching gas appliances.

Eventually, he found one who was game to install a new electric induction range. Nilles says its a far cry from the old-school electric stoves with coils that heat up.

This thing is so fast, you put the water on and literally, 120 seconds later, its boiling, he says.

Nilles also got a new electric dryer, and in the basement, a water heater and heat pump that both heats and cools his home.

The inspector didnt actually sign off on our project, because on a check box, it said there needed to be a gas shut-off valve on our hot water heater, he says. Eventually, the city agreed to ignore the check box.

First of a kind ban on natural gas

In July, the City Council in Berkeley, Calif., voted unanimously to ban natural gas in new buildings, starting next year with homes and small apartment buildings.

The ban will include other kinds of buildings in the years to come, like high-rises and commercial space, as soon as state officials complete energy efficiency analyses of those building types.

Its going to give us a better life, City Council member Harrison says. Were going to have a cleaner environment. Were going to have less health problems. Were going to have less danger in our homes.

About 27% of Berkeleys greenhouse gas emissions come from natural gas, but climate change isnt the only reason for the ban, according to the city. Berkeley sits on an earthquake fault. A major event could cause natural gas lines to break and create explosions.

Cooking on gas stoves can also cause high levels of indoor air pollution, like nitrogen dioxide. We have health effects that have never been considered that come from burning natural gas, Harrison says.

Still, she admits stoves are the major sticking point. While homeowners may not have strong feelings about their water heaters, cooking is another matter.

Appliance showrooms are packed with heavy-duty gas ranges, many made to look like industrial models found in restaurant kitchens. Not offering those stoves could put builders at a competitive disadvantage, according to the building industry.

We dont support an outright ban on a particular product, says Raymer of the California Building Industry Association. What we do support are the use of regulatory and financial incentives to encourage a market to go a particular way.

The vast majority of restaurants today also use gas cooking. Under Berkeleys law, building owners will be able to apply for an exemption to the gas ban.

Its important that restaurants, along with all ratepayers, have a diverse set of energy sources they can turn to and that includes natural gas, says Sharokina Shams of the California Restaurant Association.

Still, Raymer says some builders are already switching to all-electric homes in California, because in new construction, they save $2,000 to $5,000 by not running gas lines.

A growing trend

Cities such as Sacramento have started discussing a potential ban on natural gas in new buildings, while others are looking at using incentives to get people to switch.

We know that we have to get away from fossil natural gas combustion, says Andrew McAllister of the California Energy Commission. Electricity becomes cleaner and cleaner and natural gas is methane, and its just got carbon in it. Theres no way around that.

Californias Energy Commission is currently writing a road map for how the state can cut emissions from buildings 40% by 2030.

Still, to meet its goal of becoming carbon neutral, California will have to tackle natural gas use in existing buildings, not just new ones. That can be costlier. Many older homes dont have large enough electric panels, or plugs that can handle 220 volts.

Electric heat pumps and other electric appliances can be more expensive than gas-powered equivalents, especially because it can be harder to find rebates. Sacramento and San Jose are offering residents up to several thousand dollars to switch from gas to electric.

Its a cultural transition that we have to undergo, says McAllister. Its a big lift, but were in a powerful state with a big economy and a lot of creativity. So I think if anybody can do it, California can.

After all, McAllister says, a lot of the nations energy efficiency rules, including for appliances, were passed by California first.

Read the rest here:
Give Up Your Gas Stove To Save The Planet? Banning Gas Is The Next Climate Push - Stock Daily Dish

While most plumbing jobs require a licensed professional, there are ways savvy homeowners can save time and money by safeguarding, upgrading or repairing their own systems.

Theres quite a bit homeowners can do themselves, especially when it comes to maintenance, says Gale Bellows, a journeyman plumber and service manager with South West Plumbing. If you have basic tools and some inexpensive supplies, here are six things you can do to prevent costly plumbing disasters and increase the life of your existing pipes, valves and appliances.

Protect your exterior faucets from freezing and breakage. Install inexpensive padded or foam faucet covers (about $10 each). Properly sealed, these will prevent or delay pipe freezing. While youre at it, drain the garden hoses youve disconnected to protect them as well.

Remove and clean (or replace) sink faucet aerators to improve water flow. The tips of most faucets can easily be unscrewed and the mesh aerator screens rinsed to remove grit. If a screen looks torn or damaged, take the aerator to the hardware store to buy a matching replacement.

Replace a worn toilet seat. This is a cosmetic repair, but many homeowners want to upgrade seats to more attractive or durable models. Soft close seats, which close slowly rather than dropping down with a crash, are popular, Bellows says.

Remove and clean the P trap under your sink. P traps (which are actually U-shaped) are critical parts of your plumbing system. Water is supposed to stay in them, forming an important barrier that prevents gas from your sewer from coming up into your house. Problems occur when a P trap gets clogged with hair or soap and the sink starts to drain slowly. Rather than using harsh chemicals, you can remove and clean the trap in a few minutes. Put a bucket under the sink to catch water and gunk while you work. Then twist off the slip nuts that hold the P trap in place. Once youve cleaned the trap, reattach it and twist the slip nuts. No need to use plumbers tape or worry that it will leak, according to Bellows. When you tighten the nut, it seals automatically, he says.

Check your water pressure. While many of us complain about low water pressure, the real enemy, Bellows says, is pressure higher than 80 psi (pound-force per square inch). Excessive water pressure can damage valves on water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and other appliances. You risk flooding your house if a stressed hose or valve ruptures. Fortunately checking water pressure is cheap and easy with a psi gauge ($5 to $10 at the hardware store). Attach it to an outside faucet, turn the faucet on all the way, to measure system pressure. (Bellows suggests measuring psi at night, when few people are taking a shower or running washers.) If water pressure exceeds 80 psi, its important to call in a professional plumber address the issue.

Know the location of all the water shut-off valves in your house. That way, if a leak occurs, you can quickly turn off the flow to the sink, toilet, water heater or washer. If you are uncertain about where a leak is coming from, use the main water shut off to control damage.

Do-it-yourself repairs can be quick and inexpensive, but Bellows cautions against tackling more complex plumbing repairs or installations on your own. One problem, he says, is that the system you are repairing, or adding to, may not have been built correctly in the first place. Often, especially in older houses, the plumbing is out of code or lacking in required safety features. A professional plumber can spot these existing problems and avoid adding to them.

When to call in the pros? If you notice dampness on ceilings, walls or floors near pipes, bring in a plumber to analyze the situation. The leak may be minor, but ignoring it can allow mold to grow in walls and flooring, creating a larger problem.

Remodeling a kitchen, laundry, or bath? Youll want to get a plumber involved to make sure your system can support the new fixtures it may need updates. Bellows advises scheduling plumbing work early in your project, right after rough carpentry and before any electrical, flooring or tilework gets underway.

There are certain plumbing problems that require immediate attention from the pros. These include a malfunctioning water heater or the smell of sewer gas in your home. You dont want to risk a flood or an explosion, Bellows says.

South West Plumbing has been serving King, Pierce and Snohomish counties for more than 35 years. All South West Plumbing plumbers are highly trained and arrive prepared with fully stocked trucks. We work evenings and weekends at no extra charge.

Go here to see the original:
Plumbing 101: When to DIY and when to call the pros - The Seattle Times

Which are the best places to install a tankless water heater?

Manufacturers and users agree on one thing. The location of the tankless water heater affects its efficiency. Ideal locations ensure that water remains hot even during the coldest season. There is a direct correlation between the heaters performance and where it is. For example, installing it closer to the demand source ensures that less water goes to waste.

There are various options when it comes to where you will position the heater. Take time and assess the different places you can place it, as it means a lot to its performance.

The tankless water heater is small in size. Thus it can be put in small spaces such as under-stair storage areas, closets, in pantries or under the sink. Be careful to ensure that your water heater is convenient and safe in case future servicing.

A tankless water heater is for indoor installation only. In case you install it outside, get a suitable enclosure. This is to protect it from splashed water, rain, insects, direct sunlight and debris. Avoid installing it in locations that may subject it to freezing.

Frozen water inside your tankless water heater may cause severe and permanent damage. And most of the time it isnt covered by the warranty. For a frozen water heater system, wait until it has thawed before turning it on and inspect leaks in the system. If you water has frozen inside your water heater contact the manufacturer.

Choosing the best place for your water heater is quite tricky. Luckily, there are several options. Lack of proper planning may lead to irregular water temperatures. Poor flow of water, need for regular maintenance, or worse still, damage to the whole system.

Its better to install the tankless water heater in the same location where the old heater was. Only a few changes are necessary. This way you will cut the installation costs. You will use the hot water line, and water and gas supplies that are already in place. Change the venting to accommodate the new tankless water heater if youre to follow this idea.

Otherwise, consider the existing plumbing configuration. Your desired location should not demand significant alteration to the existing plumbing work. This is because relaying the entire system afresh may lead to unnecessary costs.

The site should be close to the main electrical panel. Keep it close to all the areas that need hot water including bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry area. When its near the points of use, the time taken by the hot water to travel from the heater to the fixture will reduce.

A dedicated gas line is also required. When the furnace and water heater are in the same room, you only need one gas line to supply the duo. But, this can create an issue whenever the 2 are operating. Even worse, the 2 units may not get enough gas if the supply line isnt large enough. In most cases, the water heater always gives way to the furnace thereby depriving you of hot water supply. This can be a huge inconvenience.

To reduce these occurrences, consider following the manufacturers installation manual. You may also involve an experienced plumber if plumbing isnt your thing. It pays in the long run. Always ensure that that the heater is accessible for maintenance.

Youll enjoy greater flexibility during installation if your home is custom built. But slight renovations will also fit the bill if you bought your house.

As mentioned earlier, having the water heater placed where hot water is much needed is vital. For instance, for a home with two stories and a basement, the worst place to install the heater is in the basement. The best place to install the unit is on the second floor. This is assuming that your laundry room is in the basement or first floor.

Ensure that the heater or outlet water pipe doesnt touch the combustible materials. Keep a distance of 24 between the combustibles, the water heater, and the output hot water pipe.

Again, remember to be a law-abiding citizen. Install your tankless water heater according to your State or Citys local codes. If theyre none, at least follow the recent edition of the National Fuel Gas Code.

For safety reasons, the water heater should not be on air conditioning lines or under pipes that can drip. Also, dont put the water heater above an electrical box. This could cause a fire in case of water leakage.

Tankless water heater requires a higher voltage power supply. As such, ensure you have large diameter gas supply lines.

Do not adjust manifold gas pressure as its computer controlled and is preset at the factory.

Ensure that children cant reach the electrical sub-panel, outlet water pipes. This will prevent them from injuries or tampering with temperature controls. The outlet water pipe can get boiling at times, which may pose a danger to children.

There are 2 options when it comes to venting a tankless water heater; direct and power venting.

A Direct vent unit features an intake and exhaust vent since it pulls in the air outside the building. Place the power vent unit in an area with enough air quantity for combustion processes. Unlike the former model, this one requires the exhaust vent only.

The water heaters structural design also has a bigger say on the venting options available for you. Depending on the model, you can vent through the sidewall or from the roof.

Tankless water heater built with condensing technology has lower costs of installation. These heaters have polypropylene or PVC exhaust vents, which translate to greater flexibility.

For your familys safety, opt for a water heater with concentric vent design. A vent with this design has insulated intake and outtake pipes. Thus, the 2 pipes remain cool to the touch. To keep the homes aesthetics, use pipe covers and creative termination points.

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Where To Install Tankless Water Heaters - Tankless.Best

If you want a thing done well, do it yourself. Napoleon Bonaparte

A week ago my hot water heater died without warning. Essentially, I was forced to live up to my homeowners responsibility of restoring life and the universe back to normal!

At first, my plan was simply to repair the old gas water heater in high hopes of a cheap fix, but you know the cliche

If you want to make the Water Heater Godz laugh. tell them about your plans of a cheap repair!

Still, you never know!

Whenever you are troubleshooting, its always better to start with the cheapest and easiest repairs first. That way you dont make the mistake of buying a brand new water heater when you couldve fixed the old one for ten bucks!

Ya know wat Im sayin

In this scenario, the cheapest and easiest fix was to take apart the burner assembly, clean it and attempt to relight the pilot. Unfortunately, that didnt work so I did a little more research.

All of the main symptoms (pilot lights, but wont stay lit after release of the pilot button) were pointing to either the thermocouple or gas control valve, otherwise known as the thermostat.

Since the free fix didnt work I moved on to the next troubleshooting idea replace the Thermocouple!!! Another let down. the cheap $10 replacement of the thermocouple was also a no go.

At this point everything is now pointing to the gas control valve. Time to drain the tank and move on to the next item on the ol checklist.

Upon further inspection and draining of the water heater, we discovered that the tank had 7 years of sediment build up. I think thats what in all probability killed the gas control valve. The water draining out of the tank was also a slight rustic color, which could indicate that the water heater has some internal deterioration as well.

In retrospect, I probably couldve fixed the old unit by installing a new gas control valve. Yet, how long would that last me before the tank rusted through and started leaking all over my garage?

After some thoughtful considerations on whether to order a new gas control valve for $135 + $42 expedited shipping, I decided it would be best to simply replace the whole unit and actually perform the recommended maintenance going forward.

I want HOT WATER!!

Technically, I was replacing a gas water heater using the existing set up and not installing one from scratch. That would be slightly more complicated!

By the way, I should be clear that I knew absolutely nothing about hot water heaters prior to this ones demise. You would be surprised how helpful Youtube can be on the subject of installing a gas water heater.

Plus, I do have some mechanical ability from working on my own cars, and helping my Father with the many household projects hes done over the years.

This is my way of saying that I had a certain degree of confidence that I could do this install on my own.

By doing my own installation I think I saved $400-700 dollars or more in installation costs.

I also learned a lot about water heaters, how they work and how to trouble shoot, remove and install them. The biggest downside was having to spend a week without hot water while trying to get it installed correctly and up to code.

All in all, I realize why plumbers charge so much to install these heavy beasts. In fact, after looking over the numbers Ive been thinking that maybe we should go into the plumbing business!!!!

I can see it now

Were NOW open for business!!! um, not really!

On second thought, installing hot water heaters daily could wear a brother out and Im not so sure Id enjoy doing this for a living. Not that theres anything intrinsically wrong with it. I definitely have a deeper respect for Mario and Luigi!

Most importantly, the final lesson is that when the hot water is gone someones gotta bring it back! Now you can either pay someone to do it for you or YOU can do it yourself. Yet in the end it is a job that has to be done. The question you need to ask yourself is.

Now for those still unsure if its worth it, weve included a play-by-play recap of the entire process and time estimations that were spent on the job.

Now be advised that this is NOT a how to article; I am just documenting the basic steps I went through for purely informational purposes. And to help you decide whether you want to tackle such a project.

Even though I saved a decent chunk of cash, I paid for it with the opportunity cost for all you inspiring economists out there! In other words, even though you might save several hundred dollars you have to ask yourself what your time is worth?

If you were to put those same hours into running your business or other money-making pursuit than the value of your time may well exceed the money youd save. In this case, it would be more advantageous to simply call a plumber.

On the other hand, if you would have just sat around watching T.V. or playing video games maybe you should get yo a$$ off da couch and install that water heater yourself!!!

Personally, I took this on as a homeowner challenge and a learning experience. Im glad I saved some money on the install, but as you will see, I definitely paid for it in time and labor putting in the new one.

On the bright side, I learned quite a few things that will help me in the future should another unit ever fail or need installed. And next time, I am certain I could do it in about half of the time. In my opinion, it was definitely worth all of the trouble!

My final thought to support doing it yourself is

Wednesday (1 hour) Took my last hot shower unknowingly or I would have savored the moment! Discovered that the hot water heater died that evening Did a little research online

Thursday (1-3 hours) Researched how to repair gas hot water heaters online Took apart the old units burner assembly Cleaned it and put it back together Tried to light the pilot and burner didnt work Pilot lights, but fails to stay lit and burner never fires Cause = either bad thermocouple or gas control valve

Friday (2-3 hours) More research on Google and Youtube Went to Lowes and bought an $8 Thermocouple Installed new thermocouple onto burner assembly Same scenario Pilot lights, but fails to stay lit and burner never fires Must be gas control valve

Saturday (2-4 hours) Tried one last ditch effort for a cheap fix Took the burner assembly out again and cleaned everything really well Still no dice, so now I know for certain it is the gas control valve Researched cost of new gas control valve.. identical part = $192 w/ fast shipping Got to take a hot shower at my lady friends place!

Sunday (3-5 hours) Drained old unit using water hose (or thought I did) Started to remove gas control valve and heard gurgling and hissing sounds Finished draining unit using buckets Could see sediment coming out of tank with water Water was a slight rusty/dirty color with sediment build up Determined that the gas control valve failure was caused by excessive sediment build up Based on research, age of water heater, cost of part, etc. decided to buy a whole new unit Started pricing new units online

This is what failed on the old water heater

Monday (6-8 hours) Took half a day off of work to install Went to Home depot, Sears and Lowes checking out new water heaters Bought a $420 Whirlpool Gas Water Heater from Lowes and supplies Cleaned garage and prepared area for removal and installation process Removed the old unit and set to the side Lifted and set the new unit into place Started thinking about how to vent and install the new unit using the preexisting set up Went to back to Lowes for venting pipes and more supplies

Tuesday (8-12 hours) Took a full day off of work to install Fully read installation instructions and watched installation videos online Researched how to vent this type of water heater Went to Carolina Supply to get parts for gas line connections Talked to some plumbers there and learned some new things about venting Went to Lowes and bought some more supplies Filled up Thermal Expansion tank Realized that I bought the wrong type of gas water heater needed a direct vent water heater not standard atmospheric Cried incessantly for one hour. Lol j/k Called around to see where I could buy a direct vent water heater. Went back to Carolina Supply and bought a Rheem 50 gallon direct vent gas water heater Took the wrong unit back down and set to the side Lifted and placed the new direct vent water heater into place Connected the cold water line and thermal expansion tank Worked on installing the venting system

Wednesday (3-5 hours) Went to Lowes again for more supplies Finished installing the venting system Connected the cold water line Connected the how water line Connected the gas pipe and union to the gas control valve Tested for water leaks, had one but fixed Tested for gas leaks using soapy bubbles none discovered Filled tank with water and fired the pilot and burner Discovered another small water leak on the hot water connection Temporarily fixed the leak Took a HOT SHOWER!!!!!!!

Heres the finished installation

By the way, Im still not finished. Got to fix the small leak, silicone the outside vent terminal, and will probably take the gas pipe connections apart and use pipe joint compound to seal them better.

Also have to box up the wrong water heater and unneeded supplies and take them back to Lowes for a refund.

Well, if youve read this far you are either really bored at work OR considering installing a gas water heater yourself!

Either way, you are now armed with some insights on whether you should attempt this job or outsource it to someone else. Hopefully, this was helpful to you in some way.

Thanks for reading our hot water heater adventure story!

And always remember what Bruce Lee has to say on the subject;

You must be shapeless, formless, like water. When you pour water in a cup, it becomes the cup. When you pour water in a bottle, it becomes the bottle. When you pour water in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Water can drip and it can crash. Become like water my friend.

Until next time, keep the hot water flowing

Brandon

P.S. I want to send a big shot out and thank you to my brother, Cory for helping me with the installation process. No way, I could of done this without his help. Definitely a two man job!

Here is the original post:
Is it Worth Installing a Gas Water Heater Yourself ...

1Based on comparison of high efficiency condensing natural gas tankless model against 50-gallon tank type model with like fuel type. Savings for liquid propane models may be higher. 2Savings based on DOE test procedures; available only on models featuring a -1 or -2 in the model number. 3Available on all Rheem Tankless Water Heaters, excluding the Rheem High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater with Built-In Recirculation Pump. 4Savings based on included components and compatibility; Installation conditions vary; Consult the Rheem Use and Care Manual, the Rheem Gas Piping Facts brochure (TK-GPF-12), the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54, ANSI Z223.1), and any other local gas codes when installing a Rheem Tankless Water Heater. 5EcoNet is built into certain Rheem Tankless Water Heaters and available as an accessory for models produced after 1/2010; WiFi broadband Internet connection required. Download the FREE EcoNet App from the App Store for Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod users, and Google Play for Android users to set up your EcoNet WiFi Kit; notifications are dependent upon external providers (phone carrier, cell phone, email, and installation factors, such as walls, location, etc.); Rheem cannot guarantee notifications will be received by the intended recipient; Leak Detection feature not available on outdoor models. 6According to a 2015 survey of tankless contractors by Hanover Research on behalf of Rheem. 7Water leak detection and auto shut-off features available with indoor models only.

Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

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Tankless Water Heaters - rheem.com

Building jurisdictions in nearly all cities and counties require a permit to replace an existing water heater. Codes have changed, so the installation of a new water heater should meet current codes for safety purposes.

If a water heater is installed improperly there are many things that can go wrong. A few examples:

Its important to remember that there have been code changes and other requirements that may apply to the replacement of an existing water heater.

Generally, a permit for replacing a water heater is very simple to obtain. Usually a quick trip to the local building department is all that is required, plus a few dollars for the cost of the permit itself. Many building departments have a handout on installing a replacement water heater and are happy to answer any questions that you may have.

There are a few instances when two or more permits may be required.

Electrical permit

If there are situations where you have to make electrical modifications or changes, then an electrical permit may be required. For instance, if the breaker and wire size is too small to carry the electrical load of the new water heater, then a permit may be required to make the changes.

Plumbing permit

Should you need to add, extend, or modify any existing water lines to install the new water heater, then you should get a plumbing permit in nearly all building jurisdictions.

If a gas line has to be added or relocated, then a plumbing permit may be required for the modifications or changes; note that just one permit may cover both the water heater and plumbing modifications.

The short answer is yes, most of the time. If there needs to be electrical modifications, many building jurisdictions will allow you to do the modifications yourself if its your own home, but a few jurisdictions may require a license electrician to do the work. Occasionally, there may be other exceptions or requirements, however, a call to the local building department will normally provide the answers you need.

Generally a homeowner can replace an existing water heater themselves, but should obtain a permit. The safest way to know what your local building department requires is a quick call or visit to the department. Many building departments will have a handout on their installation requirements which can be very helpful; also they may have drawings or other helpful information online as well.

View original post here:
Do You Need A Permit To Install Or Replace An Existing Water ...

Replacing anelectric water heater requires a permit in most areas, whether the installation is performed by a professional or by a homeowner. As part of the permit process, the work will be reviewed by an inspector to ensure that both the electrical and plumbing connections are done properly and safely, and that the installation complies with the local code requirements. Here we will look at the basic electrical requirements only, as they apply to a standard tank-style electric water heater, not an on-demand (tankless) water heater.If you're planning to replace an existing electric hot water heater, now is the time to make sure the original water heater wiring is up to snuff.

Before you examine or touch the water heater wiring or electrical connections, turn off the powerto the circuit that supplies the water heater. In most cases, the circuit is served by a 30-amp, double-pole circuit breaker. Switch off the appropriate breaker in the breaker box, then use anelectrical voltage testerto make sure that the circuit is off by testing at the water heater.

The electrical wire connections for a water heater are made at a built-in junction box on the top of the water heater tank. This is enclosed by a cover plate, which you can remove to inspect the wire connections inside. Typically, the wire conductors leading to the heater are enclosed in flexible metal conduit or are made with flexible metal cable, such as metal-clad (MC) cable. This flexibility provides a little wiggle room, making it easier to replace the water heater, and it is a required feature in many earthquake areas.

With the cover plate removed, you can test for power simply by holding a non-contact voltage tester next to the wire connections; if the circuit has been properly shut off, the tester will not light up.

Electric water heaters require a 240-volt dedicated circuit, which serves only the water heater and no other appliances or devices. The circuit wiring typically includes a 30-amp double-pole breaker and 10-2 non-metallic (NM) or MC cable. At the water heater, the black circuit wire connects to the black wire lead on the water heater, and the white circuit wire connects to the white wire lead on the water heater.

The white circuit wire should be wrapped with black or red electrical tape near the connection at both ends of the circuit (at the water heater and at the breaker box), to indicate that it is a "hot" wire, not a neutral wire. Unlike standard 120-volt circuits, a 240-volt circuit carries live current in both the black and white wires. The circuit ground wire connects to the green ground screw on the water heater or to the water heater's ground lead, as applicable.

Although you won't need to deal with the thermostats or heating elements during a simple replacement of an electric water heater, it's helpful to know that electric water heaters also include inner wiring that runs from the wire connection box down along the side of the tank to two different heating elements, each controlled by its own thermostat. The heating elements, and the thermostats that control them, are contained inside access panels mounted on the side of the water heater tank. Each pair of thermostats and heating elements has screw terminals that are connected to wire leads in the water heater. You will not need to deal with these connections unless you are replacing a thermostat or heating element on an existing water heater.

Some building authorities require a bonding wire, or bonding jumper, between the hot water and cold water pipes serving the water heater. It's important to note that the bonding jumper is not required by the National Electrical Code nor the Uniform Plumbing Code, but it may be required by your local building authority.

The bonding jumper may be required to ensure a reliable bond in a metal water piping system. Some experts believe a bonding jumper helps water heaters last longer by reducing corrosion in the tank caused by electrolysis. Another function of the bonding wire is to maintain the electrical grounding pathway on the water pipes. Without the jumper, there is a break between the hot water and cold water pipes in the system, which potentially disrupts the continuous grounding pathway of the electrical system.

In any case, if you need a bonding wire, it usually consists of a 6 AWG bare copper wire connected toa ground clamp on each of the hot and cold water pipes. Eachclampshould be on a smooth part of the pipe and not too close to any fittings; the pressure of the clamp may stress soldered joints and valve connections. When replacing a water heater, it's a simple matter of making sure the jumper connections are in place after you finish installing the new water heater.

The rest is here:
Electric Water Heater Wiring - The Spruce