How to replace a hot water tank

If your hot water isn't as hot as it used to be or your electric bill is taking a beating, you might want to replace your old hot water tank for a modern energy efficient one. Although this may be a big job for some, it is possible for a homeowner to accomplish with the help of this guide and a few simple tools.

The average life expectancy of a hot water tank is around ten years so if your concerned about your hot water tank leaking then it's time to replace it, a leak could cost you thousands.

*Plumbing codes vary, always consult your local authority for current code requirements in your area.

Determining your hot water needs

Most homes use a 40 gallon hot water tank which will supply enough hot water for the average family of four, but if your not the average family the are other options. Here is a general guide:

There are also tankless water heaters available that will only heat the water as there is a demand for it, this can save you money by not keeping a large volume of water hot when it's not required.

Tools and materials you may require

Soldering equipment	Large adjustable wrench
Pipe cutter	Small pipe wrench (14")
2 Couplings	Pliers
3/4" pipe (1/2" pipe if that's what you have installed already)	Tape measure
3/4" tee	3/4" 90° elbows x 3-4
3/4" Male adapter x 1	3/4" female adapter x 1
Garden hose	Volt meter
Teflon tape	1 x 3/4" ball valve
Safety - Goggles, gloves, fire extinguisher or bucket of water	Bucket
Multi-tip screwdriver	Rags
Vacuum breaker	Wire nuts / marrets
3/4" Temperature & Pressure relief valve (if not already installed on the tank)	2 x Dielectric Unions

Removing the old hot water tank

*Ensure the electrical disconnect or breaker is off and test with a volt meter.

• Turn off the water supply to the tank. You may wish to let the water cool for a couple hours, but it isn't necessary to.
• Attach a garden hose to the drain at the bottom of the tank and run it to a floor drain. If you don't have a floor drain you can use a sump pit, laundry tub or bucket by bucket if necessary. I use a small pump that has 3/4" hose treads on it.
• Start to drain the water by relieving the pressure with the temperature and pressure valve, just lift the metal lever until it stays open.
•  Use a pipe cutter to cut the hot and cold lines to the tank. Place a bucket under to catch any water coming out.
• Remove the electrical panel and test the wires for current with a volt meter (safety first). Disconnect the wires from the tank and keep the box connector for reuse. Pay attention to how they are connected for reference.
• Do not reuse the temperature and pressure relief valve or vacuum breaker from the old tank.
• Tip - A fridge cart will make the tank much easier to get out of the house.

Installing the new hot water tank

• Begin by placing the new tank into position so that the drain and electrical panel will face an accessible direction.
• Install the T&P valve (temperature and Pressure) and the bottom galvanized section of the dielectric unions using teflon tape on the threads of the hot and cold inlets and T&P valve.
• Install the vacuum breaker on the cold line as shown in the diagram.
• *SAFETY* - Connect the discharge from the T&P valve using the same size pipe as the outlet and bring the pipe to within 6 inches of the floor.
• Reconnect all piping to the existing lines.
• Do not install a valve on the hot water line from the tank, this could cause an explosion if the tank ever malfunctioned while the valve was closed. See it on Mythbusters via YouTube.
• Open the electrical cover plate and and connect the wires. Marret the red to red, the black to black and the green wire to the metal frame of the tank.
• Fill the tank and check for leaks before powering up the hot water tank. You will have to open the T&P valve to release the air pressure while the tank fills.
• Turn on the power and wait for a well deserved hot shower.