Purpose
Standard installation procedure for 40 and 50 gallon tank water heaters by install crews.
When to Use
- Scheduled water heater installation jobs assigned to install technicians
Procedure
Review job details in ServiceTitan: unit size, fuel type, location, access, special requirements
Verify correct unit is loaded on the truck (model, size, fuel type match estimate)
Protect the home: shoe covers, drop cloths from entry to work area
Shut off water, gas/electric, and drain the old unit via garden hose to drain or exterior
Disconnect water lines, gas/electric, and venting. Cap gas line immediately
Remove old unit carefully — dolly for stairs, protect walls and floors
Position new unit — proper clearances per manufacturer and code
Connect water: cold inlet, hot outlet, new flex connectors or hard pipe
Install or verify expansion tank
Gas: connect gas line with new flex connector, install drip leg
Electric: wire per manufacturer specs and code
Connect vent/flue with proper draft and pitch
Fill tank completely before energizing — running dry damages elements
Set thermostat to 120 degrees F
Apply Spartan installation sticker with date and info
Leak test all water connections
Gas: bubble test ALL gas connections — zero leaks
CO test at draft hood and flue — document readings
Verify proper draft, check for backdrafting
Run hot water at a fixture to verify heating
Photo completed installation, model/serial plate, all test readings
Register warranty with manufacturer
Brief customer on operation and maintenanceImportant Notes
- CO testing is mandatory after every gas water heater install — no exceptions
- Always install new gas flex connector — never reuse
- Check for open exhaust vents during installation
- Remove old unit — do not leave at customer's home
- Sales to Install form should have been completed — verify all job details match
Related SOPs
- CO Testing After Water Heater Install — detailed post-install testing
- Water Heater Replacement (Tank) — service tech replacement procedure
