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When installing a water heater, you are more than likely replacing an old water heater with a new one since virtually all homes already have one. By installing it yourself, you can eliminate labor costs. These steps describe the installation process.

1. Decide on the kind of water heater you wish to buy. You will need to decide if you want an electric or gas operated water heater as well as the water gallon capacity which is usually either 40 or 50 gallons.
2. When you’re ready to install the new water heater, make sure your water supply is turned off. For gas heaters, make sure that the gas line is turned off. Likewise, turn off the electricity if you’re installing an electric water heater.
3. Drain the water inside the old water heater that you’re removing.
4. When drained, disconnect the pipes going into the water heater with a pipe wrench or slip joint pliers. When all pipes going into the heater are disconnected, remove the old heater from the occupying space.
5. Bring the new water heater into the space occupied by the old one and make sure it is level before connecting the pipes.
6. When you’re ready to connect the pipes, you should connect them in this order:
• Connect water lines
• Connect the gas or electric lines (depending on which type you have)
• If you are using a gas operated water heater, connect exhaust flue
7. Once everything is connected, turn the water supply valve and gas main back on and fill the tank with water.
8. Light the pilot and set thermostat to desired tempearature.