Avoid These 5 Costly Mistakes When Installing a Water Heater in Cary, NC

Let’s be honest — water heater installation isn’t the most glamorous home improvement project. No one brags, “Check out my new 50-gallon tank!” on Instagram. But make one of the common mistakes during installation, and you will be talking about it — mostly to plumbers and inspectors.

If you’re a homeowner in Cary, NC thinking about replacing or installing a new water heater, avoid these classic blunders:

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❌ Mistake #1: Skipping the Permit Process

“It’s just a water heater, right? What could go wrong?”

Well… everything if you skip the permit.

In Cary, permits are required for water heater installations — even if it’s a like-for-like replacement. That’s because it involves plumbing, gas, sometimes electricity, and can cause serious damage if done incorrectly.

Why it matters:

• Unpermitted work can void your home insurance.
• You may fail inspection when selling your home.
• The Town of Cary might slap you with fines or require a costly re-install.

Pro Tip: If your contractor says you “don’t need a permit,” that’s a 🚩 red flag. Hire someone who pulls the permit for you and knows the local codes.

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❌ Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Size Water Heater

Here’s what not to do: walk into a hardware store and point at the biggest tank on sale.

Cary homes vary widely — from compact townhomes in Carpenter Village to 4-bathroom houses in MacGregor Downs. A water heater that’s too small = cold showers. One that’s too big = wasted energy and higher bills.

General sizing tip:

• 2 people: 30–40 gallons
• 3–4 people: 40–50 gallons
• 5+ people: 50–80 gallons (or go tankless!)

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to factor in high-flow showerheads, soaking tubs, or teens who take 45-minute showers.

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❌ Mistake #3: Ignoring Local Climate Considerations

Cary may not be the Arctic, but we still get winter temps below freezing. If your water heater is installed in a garage or attic, poor insulation could lead to:

• Frozen pipes
• Long warm-up times
• Higher energy usage

Smart move: Ask your installer about insulating pipes or choosing a model with a built-in heating element suited for North Carolina’s fluctuating weather.

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❌ Mistake #4: DIY Installation Without Proper Skills

Unless you moonlight as a licensed plumber and an electrician and have a side hustle in code compliance… just don’t.

Water heater installation in Cary involves:

• Gas line connection (yes, the flammable stuff)
• Pressure relief valves
• Venting (for gas units)
• Drainage and overflow
• Code-specific electrical work

The risks:

• Leaks
• Carbon monoxide buildup
• Fire hazards
• Fines from failed inspections

Save your YouTube skills for changing the faucet. For water heaters, call the pros.

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❌ Mistake #5: Not Considering Energy Efficiency

This isn’t just a “green” thing — it’s a money thing.

In Cary, Duke Energy and other utility providers may offer rebates on high-efficiency water heaters (especially tankless or hybrid models). And over the years, you’ll save hundreds in utility bills.

Look for:

• ENERGY STAR® rated units
• Units with timers or smart features
• Heat pump water heaters (especially in garages)

Fun Fact: The Town of Cary is big on sustainability. Choosing an energy-efficient model doesn’t just help the planet — it helps you fit in. 🌎💰

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✅ Final Thoughts: Play It Smart, Stay Warm

Installing a water heater might not be flashy, but doing it wrong can cause a lot of headaches. If you’re in Cary, NC, take the time to:

• Pull a permit
• Hire a pro
• Choose the right model
• Comply with local codes

You’ll save money, stay safe, and enjoy hot showers — all without a visit from a city inspector or a plumber charging weekend rates.

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🚀 Need Help with Water Heater Installation in Cary?

Our team handles permit-compliant water heater installations across Cary, from Amberly to Lochmere. We’ll take care of:

• Selecting the right size unit
• Pulling the necessary permits
• Fast, code-compliant installation
• Hauling away the old unit

📞 Call us today or 📅 book online to get started.