How to install gas heater

Gas appliance installations must be done properly to avoid potential explosion and fire hazards. Like gas water heaters , vent-free space heaters are positioned at a minimum height above the floor typically 3 inches. Some heaters are not convertible for use with gases other than those specified by the manufacturer.

Because the units are unvented, sufficient make-up air must be provided in the room in which the heater is installed. If your home is tightly constructed or weather-sealed , it may be necessary to add fresh-air vents through the wall or door to other rooms to ensure adequate air circulation.

Assemble the unit and any accessories, such as a thermostat sensor or separate blower attachment. Use screws long enough to penetrate through the bracket and wall surface and at least half their length into the studs. Lay out your gas supply pipe run, beginning at the gas meter where it enters your house. Different municipalities have different pipe size and material standards. If you notice leaks anywhere along the water supply line, close the shutoff valve and retighten the connections.

A gas hot water heater installation is never complete without assessing the presence of a backdraft. Close windows and doors before turning on the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. Open a hot water tap near the water heater and leave the water running. Listen for gas burner ignition from the heater. Light a match and put out the fire, leaving only smoke. Position the smoking matchstick near the draft hood. You should see the smoke go up the exhaust vent.

If it does not, close the gas supply line and call an HVAC professional. Installing a gas water heater is risky with improper gas connections.

That is why you must always check for gas leaks before wrapping up the installation. If you see bubbles, you have a gas leak. If you are unsure, I recommend using a gas leak detector. Most water heaters only require pressing and holding a pilot control button and clicking the igniter button after turning on the pilot knob. Other models need a barbecue lighter to ignite the pilot light, while others have electronic ignition.

Learning how to install a gas water heater seems intimidating to some people. However, following the steps I outlined in this guide will help you feel more confident about replacing your old water heater. Your family will love the effort you put into this activity. Did this guide strengthen your confidence in installing a gas water heater? If yes, would you share this tutorial with other people as well?

If you have comments or questions, know that I am willing to listen and share my thoughts, too. Close the water and gas supply lines. Step 2. Step 3. Cut the existing water supply lines and remove the old gas water heater tank. Step 4. Step 5.

Secure the water heater tank piping assemblies. Step 6. One of the main products of the combustion process of a vent-free heater is water vapor.

Moreover, the heater also lowers air quality by putting out nitrogen dioxide, which combines with the water to form nitric acid. Moreover, if the heater isn't cleaned regularly, it can emit black carbon deposits that end up coating everything in the room.

A dirty heater can also create an unpleasant odor. Chris Deziel has a bachelor's degree in physics and a master's degree in humanities. Besides having an abiding interest in popular science, Deziel has been active in the building and home design trades since As a landscape builder, he helped establish two gardening companies. By Chris Deziel. Related Articles.