Trying to prepare for a new unit install to replace a rheem 17yrs old 40 gal tall

[jazzisjazz]

Replacement has been purchased and will be delivered tomorrow. Plumber not available untill first part of next week.

Is it ok if I just shut off the incoming cold at the valve, cut the incoming pipe an inch or two above the input fitting, cut the hot water out pipe an inch or two above the fitting, cut the release pipe just in front of the pressure release valve, undo the vent cap attachment screws from heater side and vent pipe side for removal ( it will be replaced ), make sure the gas valve is off, disconnect the iron pipe into the regulator/temp/ignition control and put an end cap on the iron pipe with some doping and take the old heater unit out in preparation for the new install at the beginning of next week?

 

[sarg]

A suggestion that I would give is to replace the factory drain valve now on the new unit. The factory compression valves will not pass sediment through them making the yearly "flush" almost impossible. I suggest getting a 3/4 ball valve ($25 at Amazon ) made specifically for draining water heaters.
I would also suggest instructing whoever does the install to be sure that the installation allow access to the anode rod in the tank. ( The anode on your current tank is under that plastic cap that appears under the piping to your pressure relief valve. )
They should be checked and potentially replaced in about 3 to 4 years. Flush the tank yearly and replace the anode rod when it becomes deteriorated and the heater will last decades.
Also I see your unit has a compression shut off on your cold water entry now .... I would replace it with a ball valve now making the flush process much easier. There are YouTube videos galore on the procedure. I would also have the flexible fittings for the 3/4" tank nipples put on to replace your current solid copper fittings. Makes the replacement job much easier.
I also note it is in the attic which makes maintenance a pain in the butt. ( Lots of video on how they replace in the attic also )

 

[GReynolds929]

Why are you doing this work? are you getting a discount from the plumber if they don’t have to remove it?

 

[jazzisjazz]

Discount - Yes, Trying to find out enough to know the method, materials, and workmanship are as good as they should be. If I can learn enough and it doesn't matter to meeting required code i wouldn't mind doing the install myself and spending that money elsewhere