Water heaters are essential appliances in your home, handing over hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. While many homeowners can complete simple repairs and maintenance tasks themselves, replacing a water heater is usually best left to the professionals.
There are several significant reasons why DIY does not apply to water heater repair, including:
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Water Heaters Are Complex Appliances
Water heaters are complex appliances that require a thorough understanding of how they work to repair or replace them properly. Without this understanding, making a mistake that could result in severe damage or even injury is easy.
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They Require Specialized Tools and Skills
Water heaters require specialized tools and skills to repair or replace them properly. It includes sockets, jacks, and other materials for the project. Most homeowners don’t have the necessary tools or skills to complete the job correctly.
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They Are Dangerous to Work On
Water heaters are dangerous to work on due to the risk of electrocution and scalding. Working on a water heater can be extremely dangerous without the proper knowledge and safety precautions.
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They Require a Large Amount of Water Pressure to Function Correctly
Water heaters need a large amount of water pressure to work correctly. If the water pressure is insufficient to meet the minimum requirements for a water heater, then a do-it-yourself installation is not applicable.
In addition, water heaters must be appropriately vented to the outdoors to work correctly and safely. If you are unfamiliar with the ventilation requirements for a water heater, then it is best to have a professional installer handle the job.
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Improper Installation Can Lead To Severe Problems
Attempting to repair or replace a water heater on your own can also be dangerous. Water heaters contain many high-powered components, and if they are not handled correctly, they can cause serious injuries.
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Replacing a Water Heater Is Usually Not Covered by Homeowners’ Insurance
Homeowners’ insurance typically does not cover replacing a water heater. If something goes wrong during the replacement process, the homeowner will be responsible for the entire water heater repair or replacement cost.
Leave Water Heater Installation and Repair to the Professionals
While it is possible to install a water heater yourself, it is best to leave the situation to the professionals.
Water heater installers are trained to install and vent water heaters properly and have the experience and knowledge to troubleshoot any possible problems. Additionally, most water heater manufacturers require that their warranties be voided if the water heater is not installed by a professional.
Replacing a water heater is a complex and dangerous task that is best left to a professional. Hiring a professional to do water heater repair will ensure that the job is done safely and correctly.
Conclusion
It is important to note that water heaters are not a do-it-yourself project. There are many reasons for this, including that water heaters are complex appliances, require specialized tools and knowledge, and can be dangerous to work on. Water heaters also have a warranty that will be voided if they are not installed by a licensed professional. For these reasons, it is best to leave water heater installation and repair to the experts.
If you need a plumbing or gas professional, you can count on Professor Plumb. We’re licensed, insured, and bonded, with over 20 years of experience. We offer new installations, repairs, and other services. Contact us today to get started with the best water heater repair in Shelby County, AL.