Hey everyone! I recently had a Rheem water heater go out in my new build, and the company sent me a replacement. It's a simple plug-and-play swap, but I'm wondering if I do the installation myself, will I lose the manufacturer warranty? Additionally, do I need to pull a permit for this swap? I've noticed that my new water heater is the same brand and size as the old one, but I'm not sure about the rules around DIY installations. Any advice?
3 Answers
My city actually requires a permit for water heater changes, which costs about $40. Some cities have stricter rules than others. I suggest looking up your city's permit office online to get the specifics on what's needed. As for the warranty, definitely check the manufacturer's info because a lot of them require a licensed plumber to keep it valid.
Check out some videos on water heater installations—they can help! Just a heads up, I've heard some people refer to them as 'bombs' due to safety concerns, so make sure you’re careful during the swap. Also, I have an electric water heater, so my experience might be different from gas units!
It really depends on where you live. In my city, if you're just swapping out an appliance without changing any structure, you typically don't need a permit. Water heaters are considered appliances, but I recommend checking your local codes to be sure. The hardest part is usually draining the old unit and making sure everything is level during the swap.