Many assume they can do their plumbing and—by extension—install a tankless water heater on their own due to the prevalence of YouTube tutorials and DIY instructions. However, there can be serious consequences if something goes wrong. Not only can a mistake be costly to fix, but it can also reduce the value of your home and even threaten your safety.
Worse, the manufacturer will not provide coverage for products that have been damaged due to improper installation or use. The warranty will only be honoured if the product has been installed or used by someone with the proper training and knowledge. This is because manufacturers know that their products require proper installation, plumbing, and use to work properly and last.
In short, if you take care of your system, the manufacturer will fix it. To get the most out of your warranty and the longest life of your equipment, it's essential to get regular maintenance. Therefore, it's important to hire a professional to do plumbing, heating, venting, and cooling services correctly and to meet the standards. It's important for your safety and well-being. Here are a few other reasons you shouldn’t do your plumbing when it comes to tankless water heaters:
Installing a hot water tank is best left to professionals, as the risk of an explosion or fire is real and potentially dangerous. Even though safety measures are in place to prevent explosions, these can be overridden by improper installation by someone with the right qualifications.
When this happens, you'll have a greater risk of explosions or fires due to the flammability of gas water heaters. It is important to hire a qualified professional to ensure the installation is done safely to reduce the chance of an incident occurring.
Carbon monoxide is an invisible and odourless gas that can be deadly if not properly ventilated. So you must hire a professional plumber to ensure your water system is properly ventilated. It is also important to have a carbon monoxide detector installed to detect any potential danger. Do not attempt to install a water tank alone, as it can be a deadly mistake.
Warranties typically do not cover any damage or issues caused by an amateur installation. If you install the equipment yourself or with the help of someone who is not professionally trained, the manufacturer may not be liable for any damage or issues you experience.
When the equipment is properly installed by a professional, it shows the manufacturer that the installation was done correctly and according to the proper procedures. So if the equipment has an issue due to a faulty installation, the manufacturer may not be responsible for any repairs or replacements.
Doing your plumbing may seem like a good idea to save money in the short term, but ensuring your work is up to the necessary standards and has the right permits is important. If not, when you sell your house, you may be faced with costly repairs or fines.
Accidental explosions, leaks, and property damage rack up hefty bills and fines in the long run, all because you performed DIY plumbing at home. Do yourself a favour and get professionals to work on your tankless water heaters instead.
With ERM Plumbing & Heating, there’s no need to do it yourself any longer! We provide 24/7, 365-day support for emergency and non-emergency plumbing in Calgary. Call us at 403-978-7385 and book your appointment today!
