There is some debate as to whether DIY (do it yourself) water heater maintenance and repair is worth the risk. However, if you were to poll those who attempted DIY water heater maintenance and/or repair about the experience, the vast majority would admit it was not easy. In fact, if most were honest, they would admit their mistakes, likely indicating the DIY route proved costlier than the professionals when all was said and done. Aside from creating even more problems by making mistakes when taking the DIY route, there are plenty of other reasons to rely on the professionals as detailed below.

DIY Water Heater Maintenance/Repair is Unsafe

Even if you understand the basics of water heater systems, attempting to repair or maintain them on your own is inherently risky simply because you might hurt yourself or your family members. Make a mistake during water heater installation, repair or maintenance and the resulting buildup of pressure will pose a significant safety risk. Furthermore, if there is a problem with the water heater or if its temperature is set too high, running hot water might scald the skin. Add in the fact that gas water heaters’ natural gas has the potential to explode when handled improperly and there is even more reason to rely on the experts for assistance.

The DIY Approach Might Jeopardize the Water Heater Warranty

The last thing you want is for your DIY attempt to install, maintain or repair your water heater to void the unit’s warranty. Plenty of manufacturers will void the water heater warranty if it is not installed, maintained and repaired by a licensed plumber. In fact, many water heater manufacturers mandate the license number of the plumber performing the work in order to keep the warranty valid.

DIY Leak Repair Attempts Might Worsen the Problem

If your water heater has a leak, you can do a couple things to mitigate the problem on your own yet it is in your interest to rely on a proven plumber for the repair job. Even if the repair requires a tightening of a fitting that has loosened or the replacement of the drain valve, it is better for a professional to determine that this is the necessary solution rather than guess on your own. If there is an underlying issue with the pressure or temperature valve, the accumulation of pressure within the unit has the potential to send scalding hot water out of the release valve. Why take this risk when the professionals are a call away? You can do your part by turning off the power supply to the water heater and closing the primary shut-off valve to stop the water from flowing. At this point, it is in your interest to reach out to our plumbers for expert assistance.

Rest Easy Knowing Your Water Heater is Properly Installed

Contrary to popular opinion, it is not legal to install water heaters wherever desired. The majority of cities in the country and also abroad adhere to the International Code Council models that detail codes for water heater installation. This is precisely why you should not attempt DIY water heater installation. In fact, some states even mandate that the business in question has a permit to install or replace a water heater. Add in the fact that many locales require inspection of the water heater installation from a local municipality to guarantee code compliance and there is even more reason to rely on the proven professionals for this important addition to your home.

The Professionals Sweat the Small Yet Important Stuff

Even if you have a general idea of what is required to perform water heater installation, maintenance and/or repair, it is still a mistake to move forward on your own. As is often said, the devil is in the details. For example, if the tank must be drained, a hot water faucet should be opened, ideally on the upper floor, to prevent the formation of a vacuum, ultimately permitting air to move into the tank to ensure comprehensive draining.

Contact Excel Plumbing & Air Today

If your water heater is not functioning as it should, don’t wait until something goes terribly wrong. Our team is here to maintain, repair and replace your water heater as necessary. Reach out to us today for more information about our services. You can contact our plumbing and air specialists at 847-416-2736. If you prefer to reach us online, fill out our online contact form.