Common DIY Water Heater Installation Mistakes 

Since there is a lot of information available online, more and more people are learning how to handle home improvement projects on their own rather than hiring an expert. Of course, the DIY method has its advantages and merits, such as saving money. However, cutting corners can often cost you more down the line. 

 

A lot of plumbing projects should only be done by professionals. This includes a tank water heater installation. There are a lot of mistakes you can make if you perform a DIY water heater installation. This is particularly true if you don’t have the tools and proper experience.  

If you don’t hire a plumber in Perth for your water heater installation, here are several mistakes you should know: 

Not Following Codes or Getting a Permit 

Oftentimes, homeowners believe they’re exempt from building codes and permits when they do DIY projects. However, that isn’t the case. There’s a reason why these rules are in place. If you skip these steps, it can be both expensive and dangerous. A reliable plumber will ensure your water heater installation is performed by the book. 

Poor Connections and Material Selection 

If you install a water heater without the knowledge or proper training, it can result in poor outcomes. For instance, it is vital to select the correct size and type of pipes. You need to route the plumbing in a particular way, use excellent soldering methods, and avoid mixing metals. Any misstep can void the warranty of your equipment, result in a system failure, or affect the efficiency and performance of the water heater.  

Wrong Setup of the Pressure Relief Valve 

For those who don’t know, the safety feature that releases water from the tank if the temperature or internal pressure gets extremely high is called the pressure relief valve. You run the risk of your water heater exploding or bursting if the release tube and the valve aren’t properly installed.  

Forgetting to Place a Drain Pan Under the Tank 

It’s required to have a drain pan under a tank water heater to gather any water that might leak or discharge from the equipment. The drain pan should be made from rust-resistant materials. You are increasing your risk of water damage down the line if you use the wrong size or forget to install the drain pain. 

Installing the Water Heater in a Risky Spot 

It’s extremely crucial to consider the area you install the water heater. This is for efficiency, convenience, and safety. There might be restricted or prohibited spaces to install a tank water heater depending on your local regulations. This includes under floors, attics, and storage closets.  

Selecting the Wrong Size 

Your new water heater might be installed for failure. For those who don’t know, tank water heaters can range from 25 to 85 gallons. The size you require varies on the number of individuals in your home. You will find yourself frequently running out of hot water if you purchase a hot water heater that is too small. You will also be wasting a lot of money on utility bills if you buy a water heater that is too big.  

 

Indications That You Need to Contact a Plumber 

There are a couple of occasions where you will not need to hire a plumber. For example, plumbing issues such as clogged drains or toilets are sometimes simple to fix with a drain snake or plunger.  

 

However, what happens if you encounter a major plumbing problem that you cannot fix on your own? Do you know who to hire? Do you have a plan of action? 

You should not wait until the last minute to have your plumbing issues evaluated. Fix the issue before more damage happens by hiring a professional plumber in Perth. 

Leaking Pipes 

A pipe that is constantly leaking can cause water damage to the affected spots of your property. When you don’t clean leaking water, mold can grow. That is why you have to handle it as soon as possible. If you leave the mold to grow, it can cause more damage to your property and the people inside it. This includes allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other issues.  

If your fitting compounds, joint fillers, repair clamp, and flex tape do not resolve the problem, you should not allow the leak to be ignored for long. Hire a professional plumber right away.  

Clogged Toilet 

If your house only has a single toilet, having it clogged is a major issue. It’s also an inconvenience in houses with several toilets. You might check several things once you try a thorough plunge. This includes: 

• The tube 

A cracked or loose overflow tube allows water inside. It stops the tank from flushing and filling properly.  

• The chain 

A broken or disconnected chain can’t lift the flapper. Because of this, the toilet will not flush. Replace, readjust, or reattach the chain to solve the issue.  

• The flapper 

A cracked, warped, or bent flapper or flush valve can cause a clogged toilet.  

It’s time for you to hire a professional plumber if you examine these things can the issue is still there. 

Dripping Faucets 

It’s a nuisance if you’ve got a faucet that constantly drops. It also costs you a lot of money on your water bill every month. A slow drip might only cost you $20 every year. However, a fast dripping faucet might run around $250 every year.  

A couple of dripping faucets are simple to fix. This is particularly true if the cause is a rusty washer. You probably have to hire a plumber if the slow leak is more severe.  

Dripping faucets are a waste of water. They’re a major concern as well. That’s why it is best to hire a plumber if you can’t fix dripping faucets on your own. 

Clogged Drains 

If your drains will not drain even after you use a snake, a plunger, or other products, then you’ll have to hire a professional plumber.  

A plumber will diagnose the issue and offer you a solution. Oftentimes, common drainage issues are caused by an accumulation of grease or soap. However, there are some causes that are more severe. This includes invasive roots and offset pipes. If you don’t know how to unclog a drain, hire an expert.