Tillie Doyle
Installing a Smitty pan drain under an existing water heater can be challenging, and it is generally best done when installing or replacing the water heater. The first step is to drain the water heater of all water and detach it from the plumbing, electricity, and vent connections. Then, slowly and gently tip and roll the water heater off its stand, being careful not to damage the anode rod and dip tube inside. Next, determine the height of the new stand, ensuring a proper slope for the pan's pipe. After setting up the new stand, use a jack to slowly raise the water heater, creating enough clearance to slide the Smitty pan underneath. Position the pan drain opening correctly, and then lower the water heater into the pan and remove the jack.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Drain the water heater of all water |
| Detach the water heater from plumbing, electricity, and vent | |
| Raise the water heater using a jack | |
| Slide the Smitty pan underneath the water heater | |
| Set the water heater down into the pan and remove the jack | |
| Hoop up the water heater | |
| Materials | Cardboard |
| Blocking (2x4 or 4x4) | |
| Size | 31" x 29" |
| Drain | Side outlet with drain adapter |
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What You'll Learn
Drain the water heater
To install a Smitty pan drain, you must first drain the water heater. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Firstly, turn off the water heater and shut off the gas or electricity supply, depending on your water heater type. If your water heater is gas, shut off the gas valve before the water heater. For electric water heaters, simply unplug the power source.
Next, shut off the cold water inlet valve that goes into the water heater. This will prevent any more cold water from entering the tank and heating up. Once you have done this, you can start to use up the hot water in the tank. Run laundry, do the dishes, or take a bath to use up as much hot water as possible.
If you do not want to waste the hot water, you can use it up normally until it is gone. Alternatively, you can drain the water heater into a bucket to use the water for other purposes.
Once the hot water has been used or removed, allow the water heater to cool down for 20-30 minutes. The cooling time may vary depending on the type of garden hose you have and its ability to handle hot water.
Now, you can begin to raise the water heater. Use a jack to slowly raise it, watching for any issues or clearance problems. Raise it up by about 3 inches, which should give you enough space to slide the Smitty pan underneath. It may be helpful to have some 2x4 or 4x4 blocking to support the tank as you slowly remove the jack.
Once the pan is in place, set the water heater back down into the pan and remove the jack. Ensure that the strap is checked and does not put pressure on the drain valve or any other components that might damage the water heater.
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Detach the water heater from all connections
To detach the water heater from all connections, start by draining the water heater completely. Ensure that all the water has been emptied out before proceeding. Next, carefully disconnect the water heater from all plumbing, electrical, and vent connections. This includes removing all the pipes, hoses, and fittings attached to the water heater.
If your water heater is connected to the water supply pipes with soldered copper pipes, you may need to cut or unsolder them to detach the water heater completely. However, if flexible hoses are used, this process may be more straightforward. Be sure to have a bucket or container nearby to catch any residual water that may spill during this process.
Once all the pipes and connections have been detached, you will need to address the gas connection. Turn off the gas supply valve to the water heater and disconnect the gas line. This is a critical step to ensure safety and prevent any gas leaks. It is always recommended to consult a professional or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any aspect of this process.
After detaching the gas line, carefully lower the water heater onto a stable surface or stand. You may need assistance with this step as water heaters can be heavy and awkward to handle. Ensure that the water heater is securely supported and will not tip over or fall. At this stage, your water heater should be completely detached from all connections and ready for the next steps in the installation of the Smitty pan drain. Remember to exercise caution and prioritize your safety throughout the entire process.
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Jack up the water heater
Jacking up a water heater is necessary when installing a drain pan, such as a Smitty pan, underneath it. Here is a step-by-step guide to jacking up a water heater:
First, ensure the water heater is empty and disconnected from all plumbing, electricity, and vent connections. This may involve detipping and rolling the water heater off its stand, being careful of any internal components such as the anode rod and dip tube.
Next, prepare the jack. A farmer's jack or a similar tool such as a Hot Rod Hand Truck can be used to lift the water heater. Place the jack in a position that allows you to slide the drain pan underneath. You may need to remove any sidewalls to create enough space.
Now, slowly raise the water heater using the jack. Be cautious not to put pressure on the drain valve or any other components that could be damaged. Once the water heater is lifted, you can slide the drain pan into place, ensuring the drain opening is oriented correctly.
Finally, lower the water heater gently into the drain pan and remove the jack. You may need to rotate the water heater to adjust its position, which can be done while it is still on the jack.
It is important to have helpers when dealing with heavy water heaters, and to use tools that allow for control, stability, and comfort during the process.
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Slide the pan underneath
To slide the Smitty pan underneath, first drain the water heater of all water. Check that the tank is connected to the water supply pipes with flexible hoses and not soldered copper. If the tank is soldered, you will not be able to slide the pan underneath. Once drained, the tank is ready to be raised so the new Smitty pan can be slid underneath. Depending on the size of the tank, you may need additional people to help lift the tank while someone else slides the pan underneath.
To lift the tank, you can use a jack to slowly raise it. Watch the strap for any issues and ensure there is enough clearance above the water heater. You can also use 2 x 4 or 4 x 4 blocking to support the tank and slowly remove it as the pan is inserted. Another option is to use a Hi lift (Farmers) Jack to lift the tank. Make sure the water heater is empty and all plumbing, gas, and vent connections are removed. Place the jack in a position that allows you to slide the pan in from the side.
When sliding the pan underneath, position the pan drain opening so it is oriented correctly with the water heater. If you need to rotate the water heater, the pan will likely rotate with it. Once the pan is in place, slowly lower the tank onto it and remove the jack.
If your water heater is on a stand, you will need to fully detach the water heater from plumbing, electricity, and vent connections. Then, slowly and gently tip and roll the bottom edge of the water heater off its stand. Determine the height of the new stand, allowing for at least 1/8" per foot drop or slope of the pan's pipe to your building exit point, floor drain, or sump basin. Put down the new stand and roll the bottom of the water heater onto it, using a ramp if needed.
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Position the pan drain opening
Positioning the pan drain opening is a crucial step in installing a Smitty pan drain. Here is a detailed guide to help you through this process:
Firstly, ensure that your water heater is drained entirely of water. This is an essential prerequisite to the installation process, as it makes the tank lighter and easier to manage. It is also recommended to detach the water heater from all connections, including plumbing, electricity, and vents.
Once the water heater is empty and disconnected, you will need to raise it slightly. This can be done using a jack, such as a Hi-lift (Farmers) Jack, or by enlisting some helpers to lift it together. If using a jack, be cautious and ensure that the strap of the jack does not put pressure on the drain valve or any other components that could damage the water heater. Place the jack strategically so that you have enough clearance to slide the pan underneath.
With the water heater raised, you can now slide the Smitty pan into position. This may require some maneuvering, especially if you are working in a confined space. If necessary, consider removing a sidewall of the water heater closet to allow for better access. As you slide the pan through the opening, pay close attention to the orientation of the pan drain opening.
The pan drain opening should be aligned correctly with your desired drainage location, typically referencing the water heater's position. Remember that once the water heater is set down into the pan, the pan will likely rotate with the water heater if adjustments are needed.
Take your time during this process, and if possible, have some helpers assist you in lifting and positioning the water heater, especially for larger tanks. By following these steps, you can effectively position the pan drain opening during the installation of a Smitty pan drain.
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Frequently asked questions
A Smitty Pan is a drain pan that is installed under a water heater to catch leaks.
To install a Smitty Pan drain, first drain the water heater of all water and detach it from plumbing, electricity, and vent connections. Then, slowly tip and roll the water heater off its stand. Next, determine the height of the new stand, ensuring a drop or slope of at least 1/8" per foot for the pan's pipe. Place the new stand in position and roll the water heater onto it. Finally, slide the Smitty Pan into place under the water heater.
You will need a jack to lift the water heater, as well as cardboard to prevent damage to the surrounding area. It is also recommended to have some 2x4 or 4x4 blocking to support the tank as the pan is inserted.
Yes, it is important to work slowly and gently when tipping and rolling the water heater to avoid damaging the Anode Rod and Dip tube inside. Additionally, when using a jack to lift the water heater, ensure that the strap is not putting pressure on the drain valve or any other components that could be damaged.
