Water Heater Replacement in Morrisville, PA

Nov 03, 2023

Water Heater Replacement in Morrisville, PA

Plumbing
Water Heaters

In the heart of Morrisville, PA, a homeowner faced an unexpected challenge when their water heater began leaking. Unsure whether the issue stemmed from the water heater itself or the shut-off valve, they reached out to McHales for a prompt solution. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of the problem, the conditions on the job site, the comprehensive job details, and the critical testing process that ensures a leak-free and efficient water heater replacement. At McHales we have expert technicians who can quickly diagnose water heater problems and deliver reliable solutions. Contact us today if you’re in need water heater replacement in Morrisville, PA.

Description of the Problem

The homeowner’s distressing situation began when they discovered a water leak originating from their water heater. Uncertainty loomed as to whether the leak emanated from the water heater tank or the shut-off valve. This uncertainty prompted the homeowner to seek immediate assistance from McHales to diagnose and rectify the issue swiftly.

Job Site Conditions

Upon arrival at the job site in Morrisville, PA, it became apparent that the water heater was indeed leaking, causing a significant concern. The existing water heater had been replaced in 2016, making it seven years old. Given its relatively young age and the severity of the leak, it was imperative to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. The homeowner’s residence, constructed in 1961, provided the backdrop for this vital repair.

Job Details

The water heater replacement involved a meticulous series of tasks to ensure a seamless transition and a leak-free system:

Shutdown and Removal: The initial step was to shut down the water supply to the home and drain the entire system. We removed the actively leaking 40-gallon gas water heater, which had been in use for seven years.
Installation of New Water Heater: Following the successful removal, a brand-new Bradford White 40-gallon gas water heater was installed. This installation was a crucial upgrade to provide the homeowner with reliable and efficient hot water for their daily needs.
Upgrading Water Lines: On the cold water feed to the water heater, approximately 2 feet of 1/2-inch copper piping was replaced with new 3/4-inch copper. We added a thermal expansion tank and a 3/4-inch ball valve to effectively manage thermal expansion on the cold side.
Proper Piping: To meet plumbing codes, we installed approximately 12 inches of copper piping on the hot side of the water heater, ensuring compliance.
Replace Exhaust System: During the installation of the new water heater, the team discovered that the exhaust system had completely rotted out. We installed a new 7 x 3 reducer and a new 3-inch exhaust pipe. We secured the exhaust pipe to the new water heater appropriately.
Testing for Leaks: After completing all the necessary installation work, a meticulous testing process ensued. The water supply to the home was reactivated, and the newly installed water heater was fired up. Rigorous testing was conducted to ensure that the system operated flawlessly and without any signs of leaks.

Importance of Leak Testing

The final and crucial step in the water heater replacement process was the comprehensive leak testing. This step ensured that the newly installed water heater was free from any leaks that could potentially compromise its performance or cause further damage to the homeowner’s property. This meticulous testing provided peace of mind to the homeowner, guaranteeing hassle-free and efficient hot water for their daily needs.