Navigating the waters (pun intended) of home improvement can be daunting, especially when it comes to essential systems like water heaters. If you’re trying to decide between DIY vs professional installation of a hybrid water heater, this post has all the information you need to make an informed choice.
What is a Hybrid Water Heater?
A hybrid water heater, also known as a heat pump water heater, combines traditional heating elements with innovative heat pump technology. This system uses a heat pump to move heat from the air into the water heater tank, heating your water with significantly less energy use. This makes hybrid heat pump water heaters much more efficient than conventional water heaters. With heat pump water heaters you can maximize energy savings and help the environment at the same time.
Can You Install Heat Pump Water Heaters on Your Own?
Although you can install a hybrid water heater on your own, DIY water heater installation may be more trouble than it’s worth. Here is everything you need to know about heat pump water heater installation.
Necessary Tools and Equipment
Before deciding on a DIY installation, you need to make sure you’ve got the right tools. To install your hybrid water heater, you’ll need:
Tools: pipe cutter, measuring tape, gloves, pliers, level, pipe wrench, screwdriver, ladder, voltmeter, socket wrench, garden hose, crescent wrench
Plumbing Equipment: water supply pipes, pressure relief valve, shutoff valve, temperature valve, drain valve, PVC pipes and accessories, pipe insulation
Specialized Equipment: teflon tape, electrical tape, wire nuts, earthquake straps, shims, drain pan, foam insulation pad, wood blocking, rags and towels to clean up spills
Skill Requirements
Installing a hybrid water heater involves both plumbing and electrical skills. If you have experience in both those areas, a DIY installation might be feasible. However, if you’re unsure, it’s definitely safer, and probably cheaper in the long run, to opt for professional water heater installation.
Safety Concerns with Heat Pump Water Heater Installation
When installing any kind of appliance, safety is a big deal. With water heaters, incorrect installation can lead to water damage, electrical hazards, or even explosions. If you are going to install your heat pump water heater on your own, make sure you thoroughly read the installation instructions ahead of time, follow all safety guidelines, and double-check your work to minimize these risks as much as possible.
The Pros and Cons of DIY Installation vs. Professional Services for Hybrid Water Heaters
Before you decide to jump in, let’s look at how challenging DIY heat pump water heater installation really is to help you decide if it’s worth the effort.
Pros and Cons of DIY Installation
Pro: Cost Savings
One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a DIY installation is cost savings. By doing the work yourself, you can save on labor fees, which can range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on complexity and location.
Con: Extra Expenses
If you have to buy all the tools, spend your valuable time reading and re-reading the manufacturer’s instructions while you try to install the thing and then find a way to dispose of your existing tank, will you really save money? The amount of time and resources you invest in your DIY installation may outweigh the savings.
Pro: Learning Experience
Taking on the installation yourself provides a valuable learning experience. You’ll gain hands-on skills that could be useful for future home improvement projects. Plus, the sense of accomplishment after a successful installation is rewarding. (Note I said successful installation…being left with a mess on your hands and no hot water after hours of work is not so rewarding.)
Con: High Risk
Even minor mistakes during installation can lead to major issues down the line. Leaks, electrical faults, and inefficient operation are common problems that can arise from improper installation. These errors can cancel out any initial savings by leading to costly repairs or even the need for a complete reinstallation.
Pro: Flexible Timing
DIY installation can be done at your own pace and on your schedule, without having to coordinate with anyone else.
Con: Time Consuming
DIY installations often take more time than you’d expect. If you live a pretty packed life and don’t have a whole weekend to devote to installing a new water heater, I’d recommend you hire a licensed professional instead.
Con: Void Warranty
This is a big one! Many manufacturers require professional installation to validate the warranty. Opting for DIY might void your warranty, leaving you responsible for any future repairs or replacements. Always check the warranty requirements before jumping into a DIY water heater installation.
Pros of Professional Water Heater Installation
Expertise and Experience
Hiring a licensed professional guarantees that the installation will be done correctly and efficiently.
Our water heater specialists are trained to handle all aspects of the installation, from plumbing to electrical work. We’ve already got all the tools we need and there is very little risk of errors because we’ve installed hundreds, if not thousands, of water heaters before yours.
Hiring a professional ensures that you have hot water and a functional new unit exponentially faster than you would have if you’d done the job yourself.
Warranty Protection
As mentioned above, professional installation is often a requirement for warranty protection. If anything goes wrong, the warranty typically covers the cost of repairs or replacements. This peace of mind that a warranty brings, and the years of potential savings that come with it, are often worth the installation cost.
Disposal of Your Existing Water Heater
Nothing is more frustrating than to get through a huge DIY home improvement project only to realize you still have to dispose of the old appliance. Most plumbing companies will dispose of your existing unit when you hire them to replace your water heater. That perk alone is saving you around $100.
Should You Do a DIY Water Heater Installation?
Deciding between DIY and professional installation for your hybrid water heater ultimately depends on your skills, budget, and comfort level. DIY might offer some cost savings and flexibility but it also comes with a pretty high level of risk and potential pitfalls. Professional installation ensures that your unit is installed correctly and functioning optimally.
If you are in the Livermore, CA area and are in need of a new water heater, call Barnett Plumbing & Water Heaters at (925) 492-7672 for an on-site estimate. Our water heater experts will help you find the right hybrid water heater for your needs and get it installed quickly and efficiently.
When you call or schedule an on-site estimate — whether for a repair or a replacement — there will be no pressure and no obligation. We will not sell you a water heater you don’t need or want. Call (925) 492-7672 to get started.
