Water Heater Installation Facts

30 reasons why you should have a licensed plumbing professional install your next water heater.

When it's time for a new water heater, calling a professional plumber may be the smartest thing you could ever do. Here, then, are 30 reasons why we believe every consumer should hire a professional to install a new water heater.

1. WE BELIEVE IN THE BEST FOR YOU
Bradford White is one of America's largest and oldest water heater manufacturers. We believe we know water heaters and their potential as well as anyone. We know how well water heaters can work and how safe they can be when properly installed. We also know the downfall and dangers of bad installations. That's why we believe water heaters should be installed only by professionals.
Man checking water heater
2. THE RULES HAVE CHANGED
As of July 1, 2003 all conventional 30, 40 and 50 gallon residential gas-fired water heaters must comply with new, stringent standards regarding Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance. Bradford White has created the Defender Safety System™, a cutting edge technology that fully complies with the new standard. As a professional installer we know that you can count on Bradford White to meet these requirements now and in the future.

3. A GROWING FAMILY NEEDS MORE HOT WATER
When your family grows or when you add a large tub, a shower, or even an entire bathroom, your demand for hot water increases. As a professional we can help you with access to models specifically built for these types of changes.

4. THE SAFEST WATER HEATERS ARE INSTALLED BY PROFESSIONALS
The Bradford White Defender Safety System is only available to professional installers – people whose knowledge, skill and experience ensure that the right water heater, and one designed to be very safe when installed correctly. The peace of mind you realize by having a licensed plumber install your water heater is a priceless commodity you can get at a reasonable price.

5. A PROFESSIONAL STANDS BEHIND HIS WORK
When you hire a professional plumber to do the installation, we’re there to back up our work and to shoulder the responsibility that comes with the job.

6. TROUBLESHOOTING IS FOR THE PROFESSIONAL
If you're not familiar with what causes that rattling noise, that sulfur smell or that sudden reduction in available hot water, it's best to do the right thing first. Call the professionals at Power Plumbing Inc.

7. ONE CALL DOES IT ALL
When you call a Power Plumbing Inc to install your new water heater, you'll get a complete and efficient job well done. The professional plumber will answer all your questions and use all the right code approved materials.

8. A PROFESSIONAL DOES A FULL SERVICE JOB
When you hire a Power Plumbing Inc, you'll get delivery and careful handling of your new water heater, proper installation, and removal of the old water heater from your home. We do not dispose of the old water heater in the landfill like some companies. We work with local recycling companies to recycle the old water heaters.

9. YOUR CHOICES AND OPTIONS ARE VARIED
A professional plumber can show you water heaters with improved features and higher operating efficiencies and tell you how they may negate the need for a large capacity model.

10. AVOID INSTALLATION MISHAPS
Installing a water heater can be a challenge for most home owners. An inexperienced installer could inadvertently dry-fire the elements, damage delicate parts, crossthread gas connections or forget to elevate the water heater or use earthquake strapping where necessary.

11. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS PROPER SIZING
Part of the Power Plumbing Inc’s job is to properly size the water heater for you and your home. That includes calculating the demands from multiple bathrooms, dishwashers, clothes washers and any other points-of-use.

12. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER VENTING
It is critical to vent the unit to the manufacturer's specifications. Improper vent size, total length or configuration can lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide inside the home.

13. INSTALLING THE PROPER T&P VALVE
The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve opens to relieve pressure. Improper installation or the choice of an inadequate valve can cause damage to the water heater or a hazardous pressure build-up.

14. WORKING SAFELY WITH A GAS FUEL SOURCE
Oil and Gas-fired water heaters require knowledge of the gas or oil fuel source and an understanding of gas connections supply lines and start up. A professional plumber has this experience and knowledge.

15. USING THE CORRECT MATERIALS
The choice of material types and sizes for venting, water inlet and outlet pipes and electric feed lines is best left to a professional plumber.

16. THE JOB IS DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME
When you have Power Plumbing Inc to install your new water heater, you get the most for your money as well as the satisfaction of knowing the job was completed with expertise and experience you can trust.

17. A PROFESSIONAL WILL HELP YOU AVOID SCALDING
Water heaters are factory-set at a certain temperature for your safety. Your plumbing professional will explain the settings and the dangers of improper use of the water heater's thermostat.

18. A SIMPLE WATER HEATER…ISN’T
With new industry-wide design changes like the Defender Safety System™, today’s water heaters are more complicated than ever. Proper installation and service require that water heater manufacturers provide training and education. This valuable knowledge is only available to a professional plumbing installer.

19. PROPER DRAINAGE IS A MUST
After several years of good service, a water heater could leak or expel water due to pressure build-up. This could cause damage to floor coverings and other items. A professional will install a drain pan and pipe it properly to a drain. (Flooding is the #1 cause of home insurance claims in America.)

20. GETTING THE RIGHT GAS WATER HEATER FOR YOUR HOME
Gas valves are designed to handle a specific type of fuel. Some gas-fired water heaters are designed for certain types of homes. Making the wrong choice can be a serious hazard.

21. KNOWLEDGE OF ELECTRICITY AND ITS USES
Installation of electric water heaters requires knowledge of the properly rated wiring material as well as knowledge of the home's electrical capacity. An adequate electrical service is a requirement.

22. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS THERMAL EXPANSION
Do you have an open or closed water system? Closed systems are subject to thermal expansion and pressure build-up. Open systems can become closed when check valves, water softeners or water meters are added. A professional will explain this and if necessary add an expansion tank to avoid problems.

23. PRESSURE BUILD-UP IS A SERIOUS MATTER
Even if your water heater tank doesn't rupture from thermal expansion, pressure inside the tank can cause a constriction of the flue tube. This, in turn, can cause a backup of combustion gases and carbon monoxide inside the home.

24. MULTI-PURPOSE WATER HEATERS MAY BE THE ANSWER
Dual-purpose models can be used for space heating and snow melting when properly connected to a hydronic piping system. A professional plumber knows where to find these special models.

25. MANY SPECIAL WATER HEATERS AREN’T SOLD TO CONSUMERS
As with Bradford White’s Defender Safety System™, some water heaters cannot be purchased by the public. There are literally thousands of models with important variations and safety features that you’ll never know about unless you call a professional plumbing company.

26. IT MAY BE TIME FOR A TRADE-IN
Even if your water heater is functioning adequately, maybe you're not getting as much hot water as you need. It may be time to upgrade. It's tough for a retailer or non-professional to advise you. A professional plumber can give you guidance and explain your options.

27. GETTING A PROPER DIAGNOSIS OF THE PROBLEM
If your water heater looks fine but it just won't make hot water, a professional plumber can diagnose what may be a simple problem. You may just need an inexpensive replacement part.

28. A PROFESSIONAL HAS THE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE IT TAKES
A professional plumber has taken years to hone his/her craft. Installing water heaters is one of the things he/she does for a living. When a professional plumber comes into your home, he/she knows exactly what to do.

29. A PROFESSIONAL IS ON TOP OF NEW TECHNOLOGY
Because plumbing professionals often attend trade association meetings, events sponsored by water heater manufacturers and also subscribe to trade magazines, he/she is the first to know when more efficient models or technology changes are available.

30. LAWS GOVERNING INSTALLATION
In many parts of the country, state agencies and local municipalities have laws and codes governing the installation of water heaters. These laws state that a water heater must be installed by a licensed plumbing professional.

Safety Reminder: Do not use or store flammable products such as gasoline, solvents or adhesives in the same room or area near any gas fired appliance. Gasoline and other flammables can be dangerous if not used safely. Also, water temperature over 125°F can cause severe burns instantly from scalds. Always feel water before bathing or showering.
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