Because of the proliferation of educational YouTube videos, some homeowners have begun to feel that they are capable of doing any task. Installing a hot water heater is considered to be one of those tasks that can be completed by just watching a video and following the instructions. Despite this, the vast majority of DIYers are completely uninformed of the dangers of installing water heaters without the aid of a trained professional. Why take unnecessary risks when the best hot water heater installation in Fountain valley is just a call away.
Despite the fact that DIY provides many cost-saving advantages for homeowners, there are some disadvantages as well. it is important to recognize when it is necessary to hire a professional to complete some of the installation jobs in your house. This article discusses the ten hidden risks associated with ignoring a plumber from the process of installing a new water heater.
Subpar installation materials
A DIY water heater installation may result in the use of poor materials that will not survive for a long period of time. There are a lot of factors that contribute to this threat. Some manufacturers may sell lower-quality products or materials, like plastic trims in place of brass trimmings, at a lower price point than they would otherwise. By choosing a qualified plumber, you can prevent this danger since they will confirm that the heater’s parts match the ones described in the specification.
Risk of fire and explosion
DIY-ing may increase the risk of fire and explosion. It may seem logical because a lot of water heaters use combustible elements as their power source. Any kind of mishap during installation can contribute to fire hazards on your property. This is why it is important to hire a professional plumber for water heater installation.
Warranty and guarantee issues
Having a professional plumber install and service your water heater, you run the risk of voiding your manufacturer’s warranty on your water heater. We recommend them since their work allows you to remain within the terms and limits of your heater’s warranty.
High cost on further maintenance
Since DIY installations are often not proper, you might save a little bit of money during installation but pay a heavy price on regular maintenance. It is very well documented that water heaters with installed DIY methods receive more visits from a plumber than a water heater installed by professional plumbing companies.
The main reason is that modern water heaters, be they tank-based or tankless have many features and factors in them. A regular person cannot remember all of that.
Installation in a prohibited location
There are certain places where you cannot install a water heater legally. For example, you cannot install a water heater in storage closer or water heaters in the bedroom or bathroom shall be confined with a sealed enclosure. There are many other nitty-gritty details about the state, federal and county laws that you are simply not aware of. You can get in trouble due to that.
This is the reason why you should at least consult an expert plumber before water heater installation.
Mixing metals
Galvanic corrosion occurs when metals in an electrolyte, such as water, come into contact or are electrically linked. Using dielectric connections to insulate copper water lines with galvanized steel connection points is a good example of this. A person not equipped with that knowledge can easily make a mistake.
Faulty installation to begin with
Most DIY installations are faulty, to begin with. The main problem occurs after a few months when a brand new water heater unit starts to show the problem. You buy a new water heater in hopes that it will last you for a couple of years. To avoid this unfortunate event, always consider hiring someone with experience in installing water heaters. A well-installed unit will last longer than you imagine and it will need less frequent maintenance as well.
Carbon monoxide poisoning
One of the most ignored aspects of DIY installation is Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Many people do not have the basic knowledge of ventilation. They do not even know that the water heater requires ventilation in the first place. Poor ventilation can build up carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is toxic for humans. It is a carcinogen and prolonged contact can be the reason for various types of cancer. If enough quantity is present it could kill a human instantaneously. CO does not even have a smell making it very hard to detect.
Unsecured power and gas supply lines
Unsecured power and gas supply lines mean there are chances of electrocution and gas leaks. Both are deadly. A good technician will know how to properly secure such lines so that you and your family are secured all the time. The main problem of unsecured lines is that this is not a sudden hazard. A gas leak may occur for several days without anyone knowing. Similarly, a faulty electric line may not be visible to regular eyes.
Vacuum breakers and automatic shutoffs
In the event of a rapid drop in water pressure, vacuum breakers prevent a back-siphon in the tank, and on the other hand, automatic shutoff valves cut the power when a tank stops working, and the drain pan cannot drain anymore. A person with no plumbing experience often fails to properly address these two elements resulting in a mess in a short time.
DIY is empowering and attractive. For more DIY Tips, check Sisters Grimm. Every one of us wants to be completely independent. But sometimes in life, you just have to trust the experts. Just like the way you will not diagnose yourself in a medical emergency, you should not try to install a water heater unit, especially if you have no experience at all. If you are looking for water heater installation in Fountain Valley, you can contact Cali’s Choice Plumbing & Restoration.
Read more: When is the Appropriate Time to Replace my Water Heater
