Before You Begin
Before you start, it’s essential to know what type of water heater you have. There are two types of water heaters: gas water heaters and electric water heaters. The process of turning on each type of water heater is different, so you’ll need to know which type you have before you begin.
Gas Water Heater
If you have a gas water heater, the first step is to locate the gas valve. The gas valve is typically located on the outside of the water heater. Once you have located the gas valve, turn it to the “on” position. Next, locate the pilot light. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner. To light the pilot light, turn the control knob to the “pilot” position, and hold a match or lighter near the pilot light. Once the pilot light is lit, hold the control knob for 30 seconds, and then release it. Finally, turn the control knob to the “on” position.
Electric Water Heater
If you have an electric water heater, the first step is to turn on the power. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the water heater and turn it on. Once the power is on, locate the thermostat. The thermostat is typically located behind a panel on the side of the water heater. Turn the thermostat to the desired temperature. It’s recommended that you set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding. Once you have set the temperature, replace the panel and turn on the water heater.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take for the water heater to heat up?
It typically takes a gas water heater 30-40 minutes to heat up and an electric water heater 60-90 minutes.
Q: What should I do if the pilot light won’t stay lit?
If the pilot light won’t stay lit, you may need to clean the pilot orifice or replace the thermocouple.
Q: Can I turn off my water heater when I go on vacation?
Yes, it’s recommended that you turn off your water heater when you go on vacation to save energy.
Q: How often should I flush my water heater?
You should flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment and improve efficiency.
Conclusion
Turning on your water heater is a simple process that you can easily do yourself. Whether you have a gas water heater or an electric water heater, the process is straightforward. Remember to set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and flush your water heater once a year to improve efficiency.