How hard is it to install a water heater?

[live4christp1]

We need to replace our water heater (old one has developed a leak). We could get it installed for $190 or we could do it ourselves. Note-we did replace one once long ago but my dad helped. DH wants to do this one himself.

Opinions please.

 

[Bob Slydell]

Gas or electric?

 

[live4christp1]

Gas or electric?

electric

 

[Bob Slydell]

Hmmmm, I wouldn't do it myself (I'd probably install a gas water heater, though). Electric water heaters can be more complicated than gas ones and add in the fact that any time you're dealing with electrical stuff, it's pretty dangerous (not that gas isn't dangerous, but it's easier to be careful with gas, IMO) and I'd get it installed by a professional.

 

[live4christp1]

Thanks. Now I just need to convince DH of that.

 

[Crankyshank]

Hmmmm, I wouldn't do it myself (I'd probably install a gas water heater, though). Electric water heaters can be more complicated than gas ones and add in the fact that any time you're dealing with electrical stuff, it's pretty dangerous (not that gas isn't dangerous, but it's easier to be careful with gas, IMO) and I'd get it installed by a professional.

ITA
In addition you might want to check your town/county/state laws about installation. We had to have our hot water heater (electric) replaced last year and it had to be done by someone certified by the state or inspected by the town inspector if we did it ourselves.

 

[punkin]

You might also void any warranty if you install it yourself.

 

[Christine]

My husband (with help from his friend) did this last month. It took them a couple of hours. By the way, ours is gas. Does he have any experience with hooking up the pipes--they had to be "sweated" whatever that means.

 

[vacanut]

For $190 I'd leave it to the professionals. If you have any problems its under warranty.