Getting rid of an old water heater is not too difficult, but there are some important steps to take to make sure it is done safely and properly. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through all the key things you need to know about removing and disposing of a water heater.
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When is it Time to Replace a Water Heater?
Most residential water heaters last 8-12 years before needing replacement. There are a few signs that indicate your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan:
- Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
- Rust around the bottom or sides of the tank
- Strange noises, like banging or hissing, coming from the tank
- Leaking water from the tank
- Reduced efficiency heating water
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it’s a good idea to start budgeting and planning for a new one, even if you aren’t seeing any of these signs yet. The average lifespan is right around 10 years for most models.
Draining the Old Water Heater
Before disconnecting your water heater, the first step is to drain the tank to remove all water. This prevents spills and water damage when moving it. Here is the process for draining a water heater:
- Turn off the power/gas supply to the water heater.
- Shut off the water valves that supply cold water to the tank.
- Open the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
- Open a hot water faucet high up in the house.
- Let the tank drain completely.
The drain valve is usually a garden hose fitting at the bottom of the unit. Place a bucket underneath to catch any drips. It can take 15-30 minutes for a large tank to empty fully. Some sediment may drain out, which is normal.
Disconnecting the Water and Gas/Electric Lines
With the tank drained, you can now disconnect the water heater from the water and power supply lines:
- Turn off the gas supply valve if it’s a gas water heater.
- Disconnect the electrical wires if it’s an electric model.
- Unscrew the water inlet and outlet pipes using a pipe wrench.
- Cap or plug the pipes once disconnected.
- Disconnect the flue pipe from the top if it’s a gas unit.
Make sure the gas or electrical supply are turned off before disconnecting any lines. Have a bucket ready to catch any water left in the pipes. Use pipe tape or caps to plug the open pipes after removing the old connections.
Moving the Old Water Heater Out
With all the pipes and lines disconnected, the water heater can now be moved out. In most cases, this is a two-person job. Here are some tips for removing a water heater from your home:
- Lightly tip the unit to insert appliance dollies or furniture sliders underneath.
- Slowly wheel it out of position on the dollies.
- Check doorways to ensure the heater will fit through.
- Clear a path by moving any obstacles out of the way.
- Carefully lower the unit down any stairs.
- Make sure it is securely strapped if transporting by truck or trailer.
Most standard water heaters are fairly bulky and heavy, weighing 100-200 pounds when full of water. Going slow and getting an extra set of hands can make removal much easier and safer.
Disposing of the Old Water Heater
Once the old unit is out of your home, it needs to be disposed of properly. Here are the main options for water heater disposal:
Recycle It
Many metal recycling centers accept old water heaters. Call around to find one in your area that takes appliances and water heaters. Recycling allows the metal components to be reused and keeps hazardous materials out of landfills.
Haul It Away
Look up junk removal or haul away services in your city. For a fee, they will come take the old heater away and dispose of it legally. This is easier than trying to transport it yourself.
Contact the Manufacturer
Some brands offer pickup or disposal assistance when you purchase a new unit from them. Check with the manufacturer to see if any reclamation programs exist for the old appliance.
Sell It for Scrap
Scrap metal yards will often pay a small amount by the pound for old appliances. Call around for quotes to see if scrapping it is worthwhile.
Whichever option you choose, do not dump the old water heater illegally. That can lead to fines or environmental penalties. Safety should also be the top priority during disposal.
Installing the New Unit
Once the old appliance is removed, it’s time to install the new replacement. Here is an overview of the process:
- Position the new unit in the correct location.
- Reconnect the water, gas, and electrical lines.
- Attach vent pipes if it’s a gas model.
- Verify that all fittings are tight with no leaks.
- Turn on the power and water supply.
- Check that it heats up water properly.
- Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Hiring a professional is recommended if you aren’t familiar with connecting gas or electrical lines. They can also ensure it is optimally positioned and vented.
Common Questions and Answers
How much does it cost to remove a water heater?
Removing and legally disposing of an old water heater typically costs $75 to $200. The cost depends on the local rates for haul away services or if you do it yourself.
Can I leave an old water heater in my home?
It’s not recommended to abandon an old heater. It still takes up space, vents gases, and could potentially leak and cause water damage if pipes fail. It’s best to fully remove and replace it.
Is it hard to remove a water heater?
Removing a water heater isn’t too difficult with proper planning. The hardest parts are draining the tank, disconnnecting the pipes, and moving the bulky appliance. Getting assistance can make the process much easier.
Can I sell my old water heater?
Yes, you may be able to sell your old unit to a scrap yard or recycling center. Many places will pay a small amount per pound for scrap metal and parts. Call around for quotes before removing it.
Should I hire a plumber to remove a water heater?
You can remove your own water heater if you feel comfortable doing so. But for many, hiring a licensed plumber with experience removing heaters is worth the cost. They can ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
Conclusion
Removing an old water heater requires planning, care, and proper disposal. With some basic mechanical skills and an extra set of hands, most homeowners can tackle it as a DIY project. Or you can hire a plumber or junk removal service to take care of the entire process for you. Just be sure to shut off all water and power connections and drain the tank completely before attempting removal. Follow local regulations for legal disposal. With the right preparation, getting rid of an outdated water heater doesn’t have to be a major hassle.
