When it comes time to replacing water heater tubes, it can be a tricky situation. You want to make sure you replace all the parts. Before you start replacing the heater tank, check to make sure the gas tank has no leaks and that the water heater pilot light is on. You can test this from the top of your water heater tank. If there are no leaks you have everything you need to successfully replace the heater.
Raplacing a Tank
When replacing a water heater, the most important part to replace is the heater tank and the pilot light. The heater tank is the main part that will have to be replaced. If it has not been sitting for a while, you may hear a gurgling sound. This means that the metal has been rusting. This is also an indication that you are replacing the tank incorrectly. Take a moment to inspect the areas around the heater to see if anything has rusted out.
When replacing the heater tank, make sure to go through all the turns and bends in the tank to ensure there are no leaks. Check the gaskets to make sure they are tight and then remove the old one and insert the new one. It is best to not over tighten the gasket, as it will leak when it is filled with water. If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can hire a professional to do it.
Prevent Leaks
When replacing a water heater, there are steps you can take to prevent leaks. One of the most common ways people leak is by using too much pressure when opening or closing the water heater tank valves. A careful look at how the tank is closed will help you determine what is causing the leak. If you see dirt in the tank or the valve areas, this is a sign you may have used too much pressure when shutting the tank off.
The best way to prevent leaks is by replacing your water heater with a better quality tank. A tank that uses plastic as the liner is more likely to break than one made of metal. The newer tank models are made from a polyethylene material that has a shell that includes a layer of insulation. Make sure to check this layer before replacing the tank. If you find any cracks or openings in the insulation, this will allow water to leak into your home.
More Tips for Tank Replacement
To replace a tank, you must first locate the water heater break off valve. This valve is usually located near the main supply pipe to the house. You can sometimes find it without a pump, but most pipes are drilled before the water heater itself. Once you have located the break off valve, turn off the water supply to the house and carefully open the valve and remove the old one.
When replacing the tank, if there is any metal remaining on the bottom of the tank, strip the old tank from the tank along with the metal. You can either disconnect the water supply or leave it disconnected until you are ready to put the new tank on. Some parts may need to be removed and reattached. Once you have the tank put back on the heater, reconnect the water supply to the house and test the heater to make sure it is working correctly.
Although replacing water heater tanks is not very difficult, you should take precautions that will prevent leaks. First, check to make sure the shut-off valve for the main supply is working properly. Second, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper measurements and filling information. Finally, before replacing the tank, be sure to fill the base with water so that it does not leak.
