How Much Does Water Heater Installation Cost? | Angies List

Youre getting a licensed, qualified individual whos going to install the water heater correctly, make sure all of the safety features are in place, and that its installed to the current local plumbing code, says Chuck Sauro, a master plumber and manager at A.B. May Co.in Leawood, Kansas.

Steve Hyde, general manager forWashington Water Heatersin Bellevue, Washington, echoes that sentiment. Installing a water heater is dangerous and we encounter improperly installed water heaters on a daily basis, he says.

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On electric water heater installations, youre dealing with 240 volts of electricity," Hyde notes. "On a gas water heater, if a gas leaks occurs and its not corrected, it could result in catastrophic damage to the house or its occupants.

Other considerations when installing a water heater include making sure the unit is adequately plumbed, including installing it with enough clearance and ensuring drip pans are equipped, if needed.

Hanleybrown says one of the most important elements for gas-fired tank water heaters or tankless water heaters is ensuring the units are properly vented to prevent exposure to carbon monoxide gases produced by combusted fuel.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, unintentionalcarbon monoxide poisoningcauses 400 deaths each year and 20,000 visits the emergency room.

Hiring a licensed plumber with experience in water heater installation including how to properly vent exhaust gases and one who pulls a permit, if required, are safety measures every homeowner should take when installing a water heater, Hanleybrown says.

Because of the carbon monoxide issue, we say people should always question anyone who is not pulling a permit, he says.

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How Much Does Water Heater Installation Cost? | Angies List