Often feel the hassle of heating water manually when you want to take a shower, especially during winter? That means you need to install a water heater at home without having to wait any longer.
However, the way to install the water heater must be done carefully so that the device can function properly and safely. Curious about how to install a bathroom water heater correctly and safely? Come on, see the following explanation until the end!
Preparation Before Installing a Water Heater
Here are some things to consider and prepare before installing an electric water heater :
1. Prepare Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Before starting the installation, don’t forget to prepare the following equipment first:
- Screwdriver.
- Electric drill with drill bit that fits the bolt size.
- Wrench.
- Seal tape.
- Water pipe of appropriate size (usually G1/2 or BSP ½).
- Long power cable.
- The power outlet is waterproof and has grounding.
- Brackets and mounting bolts for water heater.
In addition to technical equipment, you also need to prepare Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves, dust masks, and protective glasses to protect yourself from injury or exposure to dust during the installation process, especially when you need to drill walls or install pipes.
2. Select Installation Location
Choosing the location of the water heater installation is one of the most important factors to maintain its durability and safety of use. Make sure the wall where the water heater will be installed is sturdy enough to support the weight of the device, the location is close to the point of use ( shower or sink), and is installed at least 1.5 meters from the floor to avoid direct contact with water on the floor.
3. Make sure your home’s electrical capacity is sufficient
Before installation, check the electrical power installed in your home. Do not let the water heater power exceed the available electrical capacity because it will cause overload or even a power outage.
4. Choose a Water Heater According to Your Needs
There are many types and capacities of water heaters available on the market. Therefore, choose a water heater that suits your household needs. If you live alone or with only one or two people, a small capacity water heater should be sufficient. However, if you live with a large family, choose a water heater with a larger capacity so that your hot water needs can be met properly.
5. Study the Installation Instructions from the Manufacturer
Before starting the installation, always read and study the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. Each water heater usually has different installation specifications, so it is very important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions so that the installation is safe and correct.
How to Install an Electric Water Heater
After providing the equipment and understanding the aspects above, you can immediately follow the steps for installing the water heater below:
1. Turn off the electricity
Before installing a water heater, first turn off the electricity in your home to ensure safety during the installation process, avoid the risk of short circuits, and protect yourself from the dangers of electric shock.
2. Install the Water Heater Support
Once the power is turned off, you can start installing the bracket for the water heater . Don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly install the bracket, and use strong bolts and screws so that the bracket can support the weight of the water heater optimally.
3. Install the Water Heater
After the support is firmly installed, the next step is to install the water heater on it. Remember, the location of the water heater installation should be installed at least 1.5 meters from the floor, not near a heat source or fire, and close to the point of use. Once installed, check again whether the water heater is firmly attached and does not wobble before continuing to install other components.
4. Install Water Pipe and Safety Valve
After the water heater is installed, you can continue installing the hot and cold water pipes to the water heater . The hot water pipe is usually installed on the left side of the device, while the cold water pipe is on the right side. In addition, do not forget to install a safety valve that functions as a regulator of water pressure in the tank and prevents hot water from re-entering the cold water pipe. Make sure all pipe connections are tight and secure to avoid leaks.
5. Install the Mixing Tap
Mixing taps are used to mix hot and cold water before the water is delivered to the point of use, such as a shower or sink. Therefore, it is advisable to install this tap in an easily accessible place to make it easier for users to control the flow of hot and cold water.
Also, make sure the mixing tap is properly connected to the hot and cold water pipes. If necessary, add seal tape to the pipe connections to prevent water leakage.
6. Connect the Water Heater to the Electric Current
After all the components are properly installed, the last step you need to do is connect the water heater to the electricity. Make sure the power outlet used is waterproof and has grounding to prevent short circuits.
7. Function Test and Grounding Check
Once the water heater is installed and connected to electricity, turn on the water heater and check whether the hot water flows smoothly. Also, check the grounding system to ensure that excess electricity can be channeled to the earth, reducing the risk of short circuits or electric shocks.