Tiffany Haney
Lifting a 100-gallon water heater is no easy task due to its large size and weight. An empty water heater of this size can weigh anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds, and when filled with water, it can weigh significantly more. To lift a 100-gallon water heater into a pan, it is recommended to have the proper tools and experience to avoid any damage or injuries. Various methods can be employed, such as using a hydraulic cart, a dolly, or a hand truck to slide or roll the heater into place. Some people also suggest using straps or belts to wrap around the heater and lift it, while others recommend building a portable wooden table or using bricks to tilt and slide the heater into the pan. It is also crucial to turn off the power, fuel source, and water supply to the water heater before attempting any lifting or moving.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight of 100-gallon water heater | 650# when full |
| Average weight of residential water heater | 150 pounds when empty |
| Average weight of commercial water heater | 500 pounds when empty |
| Lifting techniques | Use a hydraulic cart, shoulder dolly, hand truck, or straps |
| Preparation | Turn off the power/fuel source and water supply |
| Pan preparation | Place a piece of wood or blocking at the same height as the pan to avoid crushing it |
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What You'll Learn
Use a hydraulic cart or hand truck
Using a hydraulic cart or hand truck is a great way to lift a 100-gallon water heater for a pan. The Hot Rod Hand Truck, for example, is a versatile and durable toolkit that can handle various challenges plumbers face when moving, lowering, or lifting residential tank water heaters. It is ergonomically designed to provide control, stability, and comfort when handling water heaters.
The hydraulic cart from Harbor Freight is another excellent option for lifting heavy appliances. It can handle weights of up to 500 pounds, making it suitable for lifting a 100-gallon water heater. To use it effectively, place the heater in the pan on the cart and slide them in simultaneously. Ensure you use wheel chocks to prevent the wheels from sliding, as the locks may not be very reliable.
The Hero Hand Truck is another reliable option for lifting water heaters. It features a squared-off lift plate specifically designed to lift large and oversized items, such as Tesla PowerWall batteries. The Heavy Load Assist Kit makes lifting and lowering heavy water heaters easier, and it's perfect for 75 and 80-gallon water heaters. The hand truck is made of fully welded steel construction with a powder-coated finish, ensuring durability and longevity.
If you're looking for a more cost-effective solution, modifying a furniture dolly or hand truck can also get the job done. You can raise the top of a furniture dolly to make it easier to roll the water heater into the closet and then slide it off. Similarly, a hand truck can be used to wheel the water heater up, and with the help of wood blocks placed inside and outside the pan, you can carefully slide the boiler off into the pan.
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Use a shoulder dolly
A shoulder dolly can be used to lift a 100-gallon water heater for a pan. This method is useful when dealing with top-heavy and awkwardly sized objects, where a regular dolly or hand truck is not suitable. It is important to note that this method requires two people to execute.
To use a shoulder dolly, first, place the water heater on the dolly and lay the dolly down. Next, slide the water heater up and ratchet it to the dolly. Then, raise the dolly with the water heater elevated from the foot of the dolly. Finally, move the dolly to the desired location.
Another method is to lay the water heater on the floor and place the drain pan on the bottom. Pick up the bottom end and place it onto a stand, then raise the top.
If the pan fits through the doorway, another option is to attach the pan to the bottom of the heater with straps. This allows you to simply hit the corner of the stand and slide the heater into place.
A more complex method involves building a portable wooden table at the same height as the target platform. The table should be placed against the target and extended outwards. With two people, lift the water heater onto the table and then slide it into place.
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Use a block and tackle
Using a block and tackle is one way to lift a 100-gallon water heater for a pan. This method involves hanging the block and tackle from a beam attached to the building structure. It is important to ensure that the beam can support the weight of the water heater, which can weigh up to 650 pounds when full.
To use the block and tackle, you will need to attach it securely to the water heater. This can be done by using straps or chains to wrap around the water heater and the beam. Once the water heater is secure, you can use the block and tackle to lift it to the desired height.
It is important to note that when using a block and tackle, you should take precautions to avoid damaging the water heater or the pan. One way to do this is to use a piece of wood or blocking that is the same height as the pan to prevent crushing it when the water heater is lowered into place.
Additionally, it is recommended to have multiple people assisting with the lift to ensure that the water heater is stable and secure at all times.
When using a block and tackle to lift a 100-gallon water heater for a pan, it is crucial to prioritize safety and stability. This method requires careful planning and execution to ensure the successful and safe installation of the water heater.
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Use a crane
Lifting a 100-gallon water heater requires the proper tools and experience to avoid injury and damage to the water heater or your home. An empty 100-gallon water heater can weigh anywhere from 100-150 lbs, while a full one can weigh over 800 lbs. Due to the significant weight of the water heater, a crane can be used to lift it safely and efficiently. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a crane to lift a 100-gallon water heater:
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Before starting the job, ensure that you have a clear and level surface to work on. Inspect the area for any potential hazards or obstacles that could interfere with the crane operation. Make sure there is enough space for the crane to maneuver and position it on stable ground.
Step 2: Obtain Necessary Permits
Using a crane may require pulling the relevant permits, especially if it involves working in a public space or near power lines. Contact your local authorities to inquire about the necessary permits and ensure you have the required permissions before proceeding.
Step 3: Engage a Licensed Crane Operator
Operating a crane requires specialized skills and training. Engage the services of a licensed crane operator who has experience in handling similar projects. They will be able to assess the weight and dimensions of the water heater and select the appropriate crane for the job.
Step 4: Secure the Load
Work with the crane operator to secure the water heater to the crane using appropriate rigging techniques. Ensure that the load is balanced and stable to prevent any shifting during the lift. Inspect the rigging equipment for any signs of wear and tear and ensure it meets the weight capacity requirements.
Step 5: Lift and Position the Water Heater
Communicate clearly with the crane operator during the lifting process. Establish hand signals or radio communication to ensure precise control of the load. Slowly lift the water heater, ensuring that it clears any obstacles, and carefully position it over the pan. Lower the water heater gently into place, ensuring it is securely installed in the desired location.
Step 6: Post-Installation Checks
Once the water heater is in place, conduct a final inspection to ensure it is securely installed and level. Check for any signs of damage or leaks and address them immediately. Test the water heater according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper functionality.
By following these steps and working with a licensed crane operator, you can safely and effectively lift a 100-gallon water heater using a crane. Remember always to prioritize safety and adhere to any relevant regulations and guidelines during the installation process.
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Empty the heater first
Emptying a 100-gallon water heater is a crucial step before attempting to lift it for a pan, as it can weigh well over 100 pounds when empty. 50 gallons of water weigh about 400 pounds, so removing the water will significantly reduce the overall weight and make it easier to handle.
To empty the heater, start by turning off the electricity or gas supply to avoid causing permanent damage to the unit. Then, follow these steps:
- Close all faucets in the house and inlets to the tank to create an airlock that slows down the water flow.
- Place a towel or shallow catch basin in front of the water heater to collect any water that spills.
- If your water heater has a clogged drain valve, consider using a transfer pump to empty the water quickly and efficiently.
- Alternatively, you can try opening the pressure relief valve to break the vacuum lock and allow air in, facilitating water flow.
- If sediment is blocking the valve, clear it with a wire or by backflushing.
- If the above methods don't work, use a sump pump or a self-priming pump to remove the water.
Once the water heater is empty, you can prepare to lift it for the pan. It is recommended to have at least one other person assist you in lifting and moving the water heater due to its weight and bulkiness.
- Use a hydraulic cart or a hand truck to wheel the water heater into position and then slide it into the pan.
- If the pan fits through the doorway, attach it to the bottom of the heater with straps, and then slide the assembly into place.
- Build a portable wooden table at the height of your target platform. Lift the water heater onto the table with assistance and then slide it into place.
- Use a shoulder dolly to help lift and move the water heater, especially if it is top-heavy or awkwardly sized.
- Place the water heater on a dolly, then slide and ratchet it up before moving the dolly to the desired location.
- Place a piece of wood or blocking at the same height as the pan next to it to prevent crushing, then roll the water heater into place.
Remember to take all necessary safety precautions when handling heavy equipment, and ensure that the water heater is securely attached or strapped to any lifting mechanisms to prevent accidents.
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Frequently asked questions
First, ensure the water heater is as empty as possible to avoid damaging the pan or hurting yourself. Then, tilt the water heater onto a red brick placed outside the pan. When enough of the tank is inside the pan, let it slide safely into the pan.
You can use a hydraulic cart, a shoulder dolly, a hand truck, or a cart. If you are placing the heater in a pan, you can attach the pan to the bottom of the heater with straps and then slide it into place.
A 100-gallon water heater weighs about 650 pounds. An empty water heater of this size weighs about 150 pounds, while the water inside weighs approximately 8.3 pounds per gallon, or 830 pounds.
