There are several reasons why uses, both for homes & business, choose to relocate their hot water systems. One of the most common reasons is in order to free up valuable space inside. Most water heaters occupy quite some space, in what would have otherwise been a tastefully design wardrobe area. Moving them outside can help improve the look of a room, especially during renovations.
Why Relocate Your Water Heater?
One of the most common reason we get from our customers is the need to create more space. If the water heater is taking up significant space in the house, then relocating it makes sense. The heater can be moved either to another room or outside in to create room for the much-needed storage in the house.
Key Considerations for Moving Your Water Heater
Relocating a water heater involves some planning. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Location: Choose a spot that’s convenient, safe, and suitable for outdoor installation.
- Plumbing: Ensure the water supply and drainage systems can be easily connected at the new location.
- Electrical: Make sure the electrical setup is compliant with regulations and safe.
- Weather Protection: When moving the heater outdoors, proper insulation and protection from the elements are essential to maintain efficiency.
- IP Rating of the water heater: It is important to note that not all water heaters are rated for outdoor use. If you need relocation done outside, be sure to confirm that the water heater has been specified for outside use.
The Relocation Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how we move a hot water system from inside to outside:
- Preparation: First, drainage of the water heater is done to make it easier to move. You can store the drained water to avoid wastage.
- Disconnecting: Disconnection of the heater from the plumbing and electrical connections.
- Setting Up the New Location: On the outside, preparation of a stable, level surface is done to make necessary adjustments to the plumbing and electrical systems to accommodate the heater.
- Reconnection: Once the heater is in place, reconnection of the plumbing and electrical systems is done and add insulation to protect it from outdoor conditions.
- Testing: After everything is secure, power is restored and testing of the heater done to ensure it’s working properly.
Benefits of Moving Your Water Heater Outdoors
Relocating your water heater brings both immediate and long-term advantages:
- More Space: Your indoor area becomes more functional and visually appealing.
- Improved Organization: With the heater out of the way, you can reorganize the space, add storage, and enhance the room’s design.
- Enhanced Safety: Moving the water heater outside reduces the risk of water damage inside should the tank leak or fail.
- Better Efficiency: Outdoor heaters, with proper insulation, can operate more efficiently, reducing energy usage and improving hot water supply.
- Easier Maintenance: Accessing the heater for repairs or maintenance becomes simpler when it’s located outside.
- Increased Property Value: Creating more space inside, especially in rooms like the laundry, can boost your home’s value and make it more appealing to future buyers.
Whether you’re looking to free up space or improve your home’s functionality, relocating your hot water heater outdoors is a practical and efficient solution.
At Support.KE we do relocation and replacement of hot water systems. Our other services include system design, repairs, replacements and installation services. Get in touch with us today on 0743 310 983 or help@support.ke to get assistance with your hot water system.