When my friend Bob wanted to borrow some plumbing tools I was suspicious. When he told me he was going to install a new 30 gallon water heater I became worried. I not only took tools to his house but also a first aid kit and emergency phone numbers. I tried to change his mind, reminded him that just a couple months ago he underwent heart surgery. But he was adamant, "...why should I pay for a job I can do myself!" he bawled. Now those of us who know Bob are aware that he is not a job creator and doesn't believe in trickle down economics. It's not that he can't afford it, he receives three retirement checks totaling over six figures monthly. But as he puts it, "... I'm not a tightwad, as your
compadre Jorge claims! I enjoy the satisfaction of doing the work myself "! So... here we go.
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| These are all the tools need grip pliers, small and medium adjustable crescent wrenches, pipe joint compound or plumbers putty. |
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| Shut off the gas line yellow and remove from the old water heater, take off the brass nipple from the heater housing, you will need it to attach to the new water otherwise you'll spend $12.00 for a new one. If the old gas line is aluminum or has kinks you must replace it with a new yellow gas line. |
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| With the water shut off to the old heater, red valve, disconnect the connecting pipes. Note, rust is an indication of water leaks. Disconnect the flue, center metal tube. Take the old connecting pipes to the hardware store to insure you get the right size replacements. |
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| With everything disconnected drain the water from the old heater. Note Bob's daughter Melanie, who is studying nursing, is standing by in case daddy needs to help. |
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| With everything disconnected Tommy, Melony's boyfriend, helped Bob lift the old heater out and put the new heater into the closet. Bob quickly began reconnecting the gas, water, flue and safety straps. The last step was checking for water and gas leaks. Everything was OK. |
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| Here it is! the finished work. In no time at all Bob installed his new water heater. He recommends taking of the plastic drain valve that comes on the heater and installing a brass faucet. This makes it easier to drain the heater every few months. Calcium deposits build up inside the tank, this deposits are the major reason for heater failure. |
Upon completion of the job, he treated all those assembled to a wonderful lunch of fish tacos and cold libations. " Price is no object "! he said, " order anything you want ". I can't argue with my friend's logic. He was content and satisfied with his accomplishment.
