Hot water on demand – it is something that is always needed for any commercial building. Many business owners know that they are going to require specialized equipment for their system, and they could also end up in some trouble if something goes wrong during the installation process. Commercial water heaters can create a lot of misery for business owners because they can and will disrupt their normal business functions.
For repair techs and plumbers, there is a sure-fire approach to installing a commercial water heater without committing any mistakes. Here is are some tips and helpful information on how to go about the process:
- Cut Off the Gas or Electricity – Before installing a new and snazzy hot water heater, you will need to remove the old one. To do that, you must cut off the electric supply or gas at its source. You will need to locate the circuit breaker for electric water heaters. To make sure that are you are safely shutting off the breaker, use a circuit tester for voltage detection.
- Empty the Tank – Go to a nearby faucet and run it for a while until the all hot water drains out. Once the water turns cold, then got to the water heater and shut off the cold water supply to the system. The shut-off valve is usually somewhere at the top of the water heater. Next, you will need to connect the drain valve to a hose and drain out the remaining water inside the tank and dispose of it responsibly.
- Remove the Plumbing – Once you drain the tank completely, you will need to disconnect all the supply lines. To remove the lines effectively, cut the pipes using a pipe cutter. Be careful not to cut your hands in the process!
- Remove the Old Tank – After removing all the water from your hot water storage tank and disassembling the plumbing, you will need to remove the water heater entirely. Some commercial systems tend to be larger than others so be careful. You can make use of a dolly or several helping hands to remove it properly.
- Connect the Water Lines – Use a wire brush to clean out the water pipe threads. Now connect the lines to the new system carefully. Make sure there is some space between the lines so that everything will run efficiently.
- Installing Ventilation Features – Proper ventilation is very important to a successful installation. This includes the vent hood and vent piping. Check the quality of the previous ventilation features. Also, the diameter of the vent piping should match that of the new water heater.
- Install the Gas Line – Before connecting the gas line, check to see if it’s turned off. Next, you will want to remove the sticker from the gas control valve, which is where you connect the gas line to the commercial water heater. You will usually need to use two wrenches to complete the connection.
Picking a System
Your client might also ask you about the systems that are available to them. Here are some water heaters recommended by many reputable commercial plumbing repair and installation specialists:
- Tankless water heater
- Electric water heater
- Gas water heater
- 50 gallon water heater
- Oil-fired commercial storage water heaters
- Gas-fired and oil-fired instantaneous water heaters
- Hot water supply boilers
- Unfired hot water storage tanks
Tankless water heaters will produce hot water instantaneously whereas storage tanks keep hot water on standby at all times. You should explain the customer’s options in greater detail so that they can make an informed decision when choosing one. Each system and the different equipment offer unique sets of benefits which you will need to explain to the client.
Consider the Design of the System
Some systems require more service and maintenance because of the way they are built. A Tank is difficult to transport, and it will cost the client more money to install in terms of labor – especially when it comes to repairs and installations. As a commercial installer, it’s your responsibility to recommend specific equipment to the client so that they can properly protect their investment. Here is an example: storage tanks with side plumbing are ideal for commercial operators with a lot of space and room to install them. You can then explain that any water that leaks from water supply connections will drip onto the floor, which will provide additional external rust protection.
Other Considerations
As a professional installer, you want to ensure that you are installing the system correctly. Longevity and overall performance are certainly impacted by the initial installation. Your experience is going to play a huge role in getting the job done right the first time. Also, make sure you are familiarized with commercial systems, which tend to vary from residential water heaters. Clients are very quick to notice any deficiencies in your services. Some red flags include late deliveries, wrong deliveries, and installation personnel who cannot respond to basic questions. You don’t want to leave any room for doubt.
Also, installing an oversized system will be problematic for the client. Make sure you get a good idea of the client’s water usage. Knowing the scope of the project ahead of time will aid you in undergoing proper water heater replacement services. If the unit is too small, then this will also create problems for the client.
Keep in mind that a tankless system may also benefit your client. Most commercial operators are looking to do their part in conserving energy and promoting sustainability. A tankless electric water heater is extremely energy-efficient. However, this system may not be the right choice depending on the client’s water demands. Just make sure you are communicating with them effectively so that that you can help them determine a replacement that is suitable for their business.
A fully-functioning and efficient water heater is often crucial to any business that relies on it for daily operations. Installing a commercial-grade water heating unit offers many benefits, but you also want to ensure that your clients are getting the best available service. You are the professional, and it’s crucial that you can assist your clients to the best of your abilities.