As a new homeowner, I can tell you that things aren't always as simple as they appear. I started thinking about it a few years ago, and I realized that there were some serious problems with our plumbing system. We had issues with drains working correctly and toilets flushing like they should, so I started focusing more heavily on understanding the basics of our plumbing system. Within a few short months the entire system was operating more fluidly because of a few changes that I made, so I wanted to create a blog all about my journey. Check out these articles to learn more about the plumbing basics.
Understanding Plumbing Basics
When Moving Your Water Heater Is Worth The Extra Hassle
Jorge Alexander
When you have a new hot water heater installed, your installer will typically put it right where the old one was. If you want the new water heater moved, you'll have to pay an extra fee. This is only fair, as the installer will have to run a new electrical wire or gas line, along with some more plumbing, as a part of the relocation process. But is moving your water heater worth it? That depends. If you're just moving it because you think it might look good in a different spot, then you may want to rethink your plans. However, if you are in any of the following situations, moving your water heater is absolutely worth the added fee.
Situation #1: The old location presents a fire hazard.
Is your hot water heater currently near something flammable? Maybe it's right next to a wooden wall, or perhaps it's against some built-in shelving. You haven't had a fire yet, but why take your chances? It's simply safer to move the hot water heater and reduce your risk of fire. Your installer should be able to recommend a location that is safer and convenient.
Situation #2: Your water heater is far away from the water taps you use most often.
The further your hot water has to travel in the pipes, the more heat it loses along the way. If your hot water heater is currently located far away from your shower and the kitchen sink, your hot water is probably not as hot as it could be. Moving the water heater closer will actually save you money on energy and allow you to keep the temperature turned down a little. It's worth making the move because it will save you energy and money in the long run.
Situation #3: You're switching to a different type of hot water heater.
Are you replacing your electric hot water heater with a gas one? Or are you replacing a gas unit with an electric one? Your hot water heater was probably in a convenient location for the utility that it used, but that location may not be the best spot for a unit with the new utility. For example, the nearest gas line might be 10 feet from the location of your old electric heater. It may be easiest to just install a gas water heater by the gas line, rather than running 10 more feet of gas line.
Moving a hot water heater costs more, but sometimes it is worth it. Talk to a water heater installation service to learn more.
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