Whether you're replacing an old heater or adding a new one, water heater installation involves a few steps. First, you'll need to disconnect your old heater and reconnect the plumbing and wiring connections. This can be tricky without a professional plumber. You'll also need to connect the gas hookup and vent. In general, calling a plumber is the best way to avoid costly mistakes and follow local building codes.
Before you start, shut off the power to your water heater. For electric water heaters, this can be done at the breaker box or the heat pump. Gas water heaters will have a cut-off valve, usually a red handle, along the gas line leading to the water heater. If you don't have a professional to do this, you can disconnect the lines yourself with a tubing cutter. Also, remember to leave at least 6 inches of clearance around your water heater for ventilation, and make sure it's not next to anything flammable or hot.
If you're planning to install a water heater in your garage, you'll need to be extra careful when installing the device. If you're placing the heater near a garage or a storage area, make sure to install a barrier to keep cars away. Also, you should install the water heater higher than the floor of your garage.
