"How to Easily Replace Your Electric Hot Water Tank in 11 Simple Steps"

Written by George Cunningham

If you are experiencing issues with your electric hot water tank, such as leaks, low water pressure, or a lack of hot water, it may be time to replace it. Replacing an electric hot water tank may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of knowledge, you can do it yourself and save money on installation costs. In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps required to replace an electric hot water tank.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin the process of replacing your electric hot water tank, you will need to gather the necessary tools. Here is a list of the tools you will need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Pipe wrench
• Screwdriver
• Voltage tester
• Wire cutters
• Tape measure
• Teflon tape
• Hacksaw
• Pipe cutter
• Garden hose

Step 2: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

The first thing you need to do before starting to replace your electric hot water tank is to turn off the power and water supply. To turn off the power, locate the circuit breaker that controls your hot water tank and switch it off. Next, shut off the water supply by turning the valve located above the tank in a clockwise direction.

Step 3: Drain the Tank

Once the power and water supply are turned off, you need to drain the tank. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the tank and run the other end of the hose to a drain or outside. Open the valve and allow the tank to drain completely.

Step 4: Disconnect the Electrical Connections

After the tank is completely drained, it is time to disconnect the electrical connections. Remove the cover from the access panel located near the bottom of the tank to reveal the electrical connections. Use a voltage tester to ensure that there is no electricity flowing to the tank. Next, use wire cutters to cut the wires that connect the tank to the electrical panel. Be sure to label the wires so that you know which ones go where when it is time to reconnect them.

Step 5: Disconnect the Water Connections

Once the electrical connections are disconnected, it is time to disconnect the water connections. Use a pipe wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the inlet and outlet pipes in place. Once the nuts are loose, use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the pipes as close to the tank as possible. Be sure to have a bucket or towel nearby to catch any remaining water that may come out of the pipes.

Step 6: Remove the Old Tank

With the electrical and water connections disconnected, it is time to remove the old tank. Use a pipe wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the tank in place. Once the nuts are loose, carefully lift the tank out of its place and set it aside.

Step 7: Install the New Tank

With the old tank removed, it is time to install the new one. Place the new tank in the same location as the old one and use a pipe wrench to tighten the nuts that hold it in place. Use Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal between the pipes and the tank.

Step 8: Reconnect the Water Connections

With the new tank in place, it is time to reconnect the water connections. Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the pipes to the appropriate length and attach them to the inlet and outlet pipes on the tank. Use a pipe wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the pipes in place. Be sure to use Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal between the pipes and the tank.

Step 9: Reconnect the Electrical Connections

With the water connections in place, it is time to reconnect the electrical connections. Connect the wires that you labeled in Step 4 to the appropriate terminals on the new tank. Use wire nuts to secure the connections and ensure that they are tight. Replace the access panel cover and ensure that it is secure.

Step 10: Fill and Test the Tank

Once all of the connections are secure, it is time to fill the tank with water and test it. Open the water supply valve and allow the tank to fill completely. Check for any leaks in the pipes or around the tank. Turn the power back on at the electrical panel and test the hot water by turning on a faucet. Wait for the water to heat up and ensure that it is at the desired temperature.

Step 11: Dispose of the Old Tank

Now that the new tank is installed and working properly, it is time to dispose of the old one. Contact your local waste management facility to find out how to dispose of your old tank properly.

Replacing an electric hot water tank may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done easily and efficiently. Be sure to follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and successful replacement. If you are unsure about any part of the process, do not hesitate to call in a professional to assist you. By replacing your old hot water tank, you can enjoy a reliable supply of hot water and save money on energy costs in the long run.