An apparatus using natural gas for operation is considered the most advantageous option for a water heater. If there is a need to replace the old column with a new one, the owner of the equipment must know what documents are needed for this and what work is required.
When is the replacement necessary?
Replace the old column with new equipment decide if:
- The device does not turn on at all.
- The main nodes of the column are out of order.
- They want to replace the outdated model with a more modern one.
Important nuances
- A gas heater must be installed by professionals who are able to work with gas equipment.
- If the water heater is in the bathroom, and it often happens in old houses built in the 50's and 60's, it is not necessary to carry it, although the installation of new columns in such a room is not recommended because of insufficient volume( it must be at least 15 m3) and the absence of a window.
- It is important to make sure that room ventilation is adequate.
- If you want to hide a new column behind decorative panels, you should make sure that they are non-flammable and easily removed.
How much does the replacement cost and what does the cost depend on?
The average cost of installing a column is about 3000-5000 rubles. Depending on the model and manufacturer, the price can be as low or higher. Separately, they pay extra for the dismantling of the old apparatus( this costs about 300-800 rubles).
The cost of replacing the column includes the call of a specialist at home to disconnect the equipment from communications, dismantle the speaker, and install and connect a new device. Also, the master takes charge for the work on adjusting the column.
The cost of works will be higher if:
- You need to buy additional materials for installation.
- More plumbing work is needed.
- Chimney required.
- It is necessary to replace the gas cock.
Required documentation
In case of installing a new column in place of the old one, the following documents are required:
- A copy of the project from the Housing Office, which shows the location of the column, features of gas and water supply, and smoke removal.
- Passport for the new column. If the device is not yet purchased, you can simply specify the model.
- Act on the state of the chimney.
- A statement to the gas service about the need to replace equipment while maintaining the previous installation site.
- Application for permission to work on the gas main.
Removing the old
Column replacement work begins with the dismantling of the old equipment:
- First cut off the gas supply and unscrew the gas hose.
- The water supply is then closed by tightening the corresponding tap.
- The column is then disconnected from the chimney.
- Once the equipment is completely disconnected from the communications, the column is removed from the fastenings.
Installing a new column
It is perfectly permissible to install a new gas column with your own hands, but with the exception of connecting the device to gas( a licensed specialist must do this).
The independent actions of the owner of the column will be as follows:
- If necessary, prepare a wall for mounting new equipment, and also replace the fasteners.
- After hanging the device on the prepared place, start connecting the communication systems in turn - first the chimney, and then the water supply hose.
- Invited specialist for connecting a gas hose, installing a shut-off valve and registering the column.
- Having convinced of sufficient draft, absence of a smell of gas and leaks, start the equipment.
- Adjust the water supply and power of the machine.
Tips for
- To keep the new column working for a long time without problems, it's important not to forget about its regular maintenance( the recommended frequency is every 12 months).
- It is not necessary to allow an excessive increase in the temperature of the water heating by the appliance, as this will speed up the process of scale formation inside the heat exchanger.
- If the water pressure is too low in the water supply, it is recommended to install the pump.