Building any jurisdictions inside allcities & countries requires a permit to replace your existing water heater.Codes have changed, so installing a new water heater should meet the new regulationsfor safety purposes. So, when you install your water heater, improperly manythings can go wrong as:
· If you installed the water heater without a "T orP" valve, it might explode as many people died because of this.
· If you have a gas water heater, it's important toinstall it correctly, so it doesn't leak. Electric water heaters need properwire connecting as when the size of the water heater increase, then a largewire size may be required.
Thus, it's important to remember that codeshave changed & other requirements may apply to replacing your existingwater heater.
Permits
A permit for your water heater replacementis very simple to obtain. A quick visit to the building department & a fewdollars for the permit cost, and that's it. The building departments have a handouton installing your water heater replacement & will answer your questionshappily.
When You Need Two Permits?
There are few cases when you have to gettwo or more permits.
Electric Permit
When you have to make electricalmodifications & changes, then an electrical permit will be required. Forexample, if the wire & breaker size is too small to carry your new waterheater's electrical load, a permit is a must to make changes.
Plumbing Permit
If you have to add, extend, change ormodify your existing water lines to proper your new water heater, then youshould get a plumbing permit from your nearly building jurisdictions.
Also, if you have to re-locate or add a gasline, you should get a plumbing permit. Please note that one permit might coverboth of your water heater & plumbing modifications.
Can You Replace The Water Heater Yourself?
"YES" is the answer most of the time. Ifelectrical modifications are required, many building jurisdictions will allowyou to make any changes on your own. However, some jurisdictions will need alicensed electrician to do the job for you. Call the building department to getthe answer to your case!
When To Replace Your Water Heater?
· Is the vent on the top of your water heater isconnected & no gaps for the carbon monoxide to escape?
· Do you live in an area that's prone to earthquakes& the water heater is appropriately strapped?
· The gas line made of Rigid made of aluminum no longerallowed in most building jurisdictions
To sum up, any homeowner can replace hisexisting water heater independently but obtain a permit first! To know yourlocal building requirements, give the department a call or a visit.