Like most home appliances, water heaters can malfunction, necessitating replacement. Major risks involve the replacement process, which is why you should hire professionals to do the installation. Don’t let the current DIY trend make you think you can install a water heater yourself. Fixing a cabinet yourself is one thing and installing a water heater another. If you were thinking of doing the installation yourself, consider that major risks might follow. If you have any doubts, the best strategy is to let a master plumber handle the installation.
Fire and Explosion
Combustible fuel is required to operate natural gas water heaters as this is what gets the water heated. Unfortunately, combustible fuels are extremely flammable and can easily cause a fire or, worse, explode if not managed properly. Several valves must be connected appropriately to make the water heater safe for commercial areas and residences. Your life, as well as the existence of your family, will be jeopardized if you make even the smallest error during the installation.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Most water heaters in homes today are powered by gas; these units need extra care and attention, unlike electric water heaters. Unfortunately, a lot of people do not concern themselves or rather do not understand this. A lot goes on to make sure the heater is properly ventilated to prevent overheating. When the system is not well ventilated, carbon monoxide accumulates and eventually finds its way to your home.
Exposure to carbon monoxide for long hours is dangerously lethal and should not be taken lightly. It leads to brain damage and, in the worst-case, death. Because the gas has neither color nor odor, it is impossible to detect its presence in your home. This is why the gas is also known as a silent killer. Improper water heating system installation can put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Extra Costs
When you replace the water heater independently, you bypass the inspection process. This will cause a lot of commotion in many ways. For instance, if you want to sell the house, you will be required to have the water heater examined and approved, which will be a lot considering it was not done professionally. Inspectors will conduct several tests; if your heating fails, you will be required to get a replacement and pay a professional. In your efforts to save money, you will use more than what you would have paid for the professional installation.
Dry Firing
The heating components are designed to work in water, and when this is unavailable, it causes dry firing. Insufficient water supply may be a result of poor connections or water shortage. When a copper element is dry-fired, its temperature elevates to the point of no return. You will realize a huge difference when heating your water as the coper element will only heat up to 1°C above the water’s temperature. Most copper elements fail instantly after the dry firing, leaving you with no option but to buy new ones.
Connection Problems
To avoid flood damage, confirm that the water heater is connected to the correct supply routes and that sufficient drainage is in place. The system’s efficiency is determined by the water supplies and its capacity to discharge water. Incorrect installations might cause the lines and the water heater to be overworked. The increased stress might harm the water heating system and simultaneously cause a burst on the lines.
Water heater installations are very sensitive, which is why you should contact a professional plumber to do the replacement for you. Furthermore, they will help you choose a replacement that will be more efficient and install it in the safest way possible.
