Replacing your water heater can feel like a big task—especially if it’s your first time going through the process. Whether your current unit has failed or you’re upgrading to a more efficient model, knowing what to expect on installation day helps you feel confident and prepared.
At Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we’ve installed thousands of water heaters in homes across Portland, Gresham, and Happy Valley. Our goal is to make the process seamless, fast, and stress-free. In this post, we’ll walk you through each step of a typical water heater replacement appointment so you know exactly what happens, how long it takes, and how to get your home ready.
Before the Appointment: What You Can Do to Prepare
In most cases, we’ll schedule a replacement visit shortly after your estimate—sometimes the same day if your current water heater is leaking or has failed.
Here’s how to prep your space before we arrive:
- Clear the area around the unit (2–3 feet of working space is ideal)
- Remove storage items from laundry rooms, garages, or closets near the heater
- Secure pets in another room during the appointment
- Make sure we have access to shut-off valves and electrical panels
Not sure if your setup is accessible? Just let us know—we’re happy to advise in advance.
Step 1: Arrival and System Review
When your plumber arrives, we’ll first:
- Confirm the scope of the job
- Inspect the existing unit
- Discuss any code compliance upgrades (like seismic straps or expansion tanks)
- Review fuel type (gas or electric), venting, and location
We’ll answer your questions, go over your selected model one more time, and provide a clear timeline for completion.
Step 2: Draining and Removing the Old Unit
Once everything is confirmed, we’ll shut off your:
- Water supply
- Gas line or electrical connection
- Temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR)
Then, we’ll drain the tank and disconnect the unit from its plumbing and venting. The old unit is carefully removed and hauled away—usually in under an hour.
Step 3: Preparing the Space
If you’re switching from tank to tankless or hybrid, this stage may involve:
- Installing new gas or electric connections
- Adjusting venting or intake/exhaust piping
- Adding a platform or condensate drain (for hybrid units)
- Mounting tankless units to the wall (if applicable)
We also bring the installation up to current Portland-area code, including:
- Earthquake safety strapping
- Expansion tanks for closed-loop systems
- Drip pans or drains in finished spaces
This ensures long-term safety, insurance compliance, and smooth inspections.
Step 4: Installing Your New Water Heater
With the site ready, we’ll install your new system. This involves:
- Connecting cold and hot water lines
- Re-sealing and testing fittings
- Installing or updating the gas or electric connection
- Ensuring safe and efficient venting
- Refilling and powering up the new unit
We pressure-test the system and monitor it for leaks or pressure irregularities. Once it passes inspection, we’ll walk you through the features and settings.
Step 5: Final Testing, Clean-Up, and Walkthrough
Before we leave, we’ll:
- Test temperature output and adjust settings to 120°F (standard recommendation)
- Register your warranty with the manufacturer (if applicable)
- Explain basic maintenance tips (like annual flushing or anode rod inspection)
- Clean up the work area and haul away the old unit
We’ll also provide your invoice, warranty details, and copies of any permits if required by your city or HOA.
How Long Does the Appointment Take?
Here’s a general timeline:
- Tank-to-tank replacement: 3–5 hours
- Tankless or hybrid install: 6–10 hours (may extend over two days if upgrades are needed)
- Emergency replacement: Often same-day service depending on model availability
Need to coordinate around your work schedule or school pick-ups? Let us know—we’re happy to start early or plan ahead.
Common Questions We Hear
Do I need to be home the whole time?
Yes, we recommend that someone 18+ is home to review details, answer questions, and confirm system placement.
Will my water be turned off all day?
Only during the disconnection and reconnection process—usually 1–2 hours.
Do you dispose of the old unit?
Yes, removal and eco-friendly disposal are included in every install.
Ready to upgrade? Learn more about your system options and what to expect on our Water Heater Replacement page.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Happy Valley, or anywhere in the Portland metro, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing provides fast, clean, and code-compliant water heater installation—done right the first time.
Contact us today to schedule your replacement appointment or get a free quote.