I’m replacing my water heater as the old one has a small leak at the bottom. New one just came in today and I’m leaving tomorrow afternoon for 5 days. I don’t want to leave the old one installed in case the small leak becomes a large one…but I also don’t want to install the new one and then leave. So, my plan is to take the old one out and install the new one when I return. This would also allow everything to completely dry out from the small leak (it’s on subfloor in a crawlspace and prior owner didn’t install it with drain pan). Or, partially install the new one without turning the water on or power to it. Is there anything wrong with either scenario? Lowest temp between now and then is 32 on one night (and water heater is inside) so no freezing issues. I’m sure I’m over thinking this. I know some say to turn off main water to the house but I’d have to crawl under the house and would rather not have to do that unless it’s necessary. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Is there anything wrong with either scenario?
No.
**Any thoughts would be appreciated. **
Do the work now and have hot water when you return.
Is there anything wrong with either scenario?
No.
agreed, just shut off the supply to the hot water heater, and drain the old one now, 'cause that’s going to be a bigger job than expected.
Is there anything wrong with either scenario?
No.
agreed, just shut off the supply to the hot water heater, and drain the old one now, 'cause that’s going to be a bigger job than expected.
2nd this. I would not bother to remove the old one. Just shut the water to it off, and drain.
if you drain your current one and do not remove it, be sure to turn off the power or gas.
I wouldn’t rush to put the new heater in. If you run into issues installing it, you won’t want your pending trip pressuring you on time. When I installed our new heater last year it ended up taking a few hours longer than expected due to having to redo some copper piping.
thanks all for the responses. It definitely took longer than planned on getting the old one drained and uninstalled. About to head underneath the house to turn water off as there is a slow drip in cold water pipe.