If you are nodding there, then don’t worry; it’s actually pretty simple once you know what to do, and, in this article, we are going to tell you exactly how to turn it on and get it running smoothly.
We’ll go through everything you need to know about turning on your water heater, including safety measures, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting common problems, and maintenance tips.
So, keep reading below to learn more!
What Are The Different Types Of Water Heaters?
Before we look at how to turn on a water heater, we should go through the two main types you can find: gas water heaters and electric water heaters.
Gas Water Heaters
These types of water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat the water.
Moreover, they have a pilot light that ignites the gas burner to heat the water and they require ventilation to the outside to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
They also tend to have a higher upfront cost than electric water heaters but can be more cost-effective over time due to lower energy costs.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters, on the other hand, use electricity to heat the water.
They have heating elements located inside the tank that heats the water and unlike gas heaters, they don’t require ventilation.
This makes them easier to install which, in addition to the fact that they have a lower upfront cost than gas water heaters, makes them a better option for many people.
Even so, they can be more expensive to operate over time due to higher energy costs, so there’s lots of debate there as to which one’s more worth it!
As for their similarities:
They both have a storage tank that holds the hot water.
They both have temperature control to adjust the temperature of the water.
They both can be prone to problems such as sediment buildup or faulty thermostats.
It’s important to note that there are also tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand instead of storing it in a tank.
However, they are a bit more complex and may require a separate article to fully explain.
How To Prepare Before You Turn On The Water Heater
Before you start messing around with your water heater, it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your home.
Here’s what you need to do:
Locate Your Water Heater
Make sure you know where your water heater is located. It could be in the basement, garage, or even a closet in your home.
If you live in an apartment, your water heater may be located in a shared utility room.
Identify The Type Of Water Heater You Have
As we discussed earlier, there are two main types of water heaters: gas and electric. So, make sure you know which type you have before attempting to turn it on
Turn Off The Gas Or Electricity Supply
Before doing anything, turn off the gas or electricity supply to the water heater.
If you have a gas water heater, you will have to first find its gas valve and turn it to the ‘off’ position.
If you have an electric water heater, turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the water heater.
Allow The Water Heater To Cool Down
If your water heater has been in use recently, it’s important to let it cool down before attempting to work on it.
Give it at least an hour to cool down to avoid any burns or injuries.
Check For Gas Leaks
If you have a gas water heater, it’s important to check for gas leaks before turning it on.
Use a gas leak detector or soapy water to check for any leaks around the gas valve and connections.
If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply and call a professional.
Check whether the pilot light is lit, and if it’s not, it’s best to find the manufacturer’s manual and follow that to light it.
Step 2: Turn The Gas Control Valve To On
Locate the gas control valve on your water heater. It should be near the bottom of the tank, near the pilot light.
Turn the valve to the on position.
Step 3: Set The Temperature
Locate the temperature control knob on your water heater. It should be near the gas control valve.
Set the temperature to your desired level. Note that most water heaters have a range of 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
How To Turn On The Electricity Water Heater
While there are many similarities with turning on the gas water heater, to turn on an electric water heater you need to follow some slightly different steps.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Locate The Circuit Breaker
Locate the circuit breaker that controls the electricity supply to your water heater.
Turn off the circuit breaker before proceeding.
Step 2: Check The Water Level
Before turning on the electricity to your water heater, make sure there is enough water in the tank.
If the tank is empty, it can damage the heating elements.
Step 3: Turn On The Electricity Supply
Locate the electricity supply switch on your water heater.
Turn on the switch to supply electricity to the water heater.
Step 4: Set The Temperature
Locate the temperature control knob on your water heater.
Set the temperature to your desired level.
Regardless of the type of water heater you have, you will then have to wait for the water to warm up for a few hours and check for any issues or leaks that will require the help of a professional.
The Bottom Line
By following these simple step-by-step instructions and tips, you can turn on your electric water heater and have hot water in no time.
So, save this article and give your water heater a try!
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
