To replace a faucet on a water heater, first shut off the water supply and power to the unit. Drain the tank by opening the drain valve until water stops flowing. Remove the old faucet by unscrewing it counterclockwise, noting the orientation of the escutcheon plate and connections. Install the new faucet, ensuring O-rings or seals are properly seated. Reattach the escutcheon plate and test for leaks by slowly turning the water supply back on. Use Teflon tape or pipe dope on threads if needed.

Replacing a water heater faucet is critical to preventing leaks, water waste, and energy loss. Corrosion or mineral buildup in the faucet can cause pressure drops, reducing hot water efficiency by up to 15% (EPA, 2022). A faulty faucet also risks flooding, which the Insurance Institute for Property Loss Prevention (IPLP) estimates costs $5,000+ per incident in the U.S. annually. Regular maintenance, including faucet replacement, extends water heater lifespan by 6–8 years (IAPMO, 2021). Over 30% of U.S. homeowners report faucet-related water heater issues, with 60% of failures linked to unaddressed leaks (Plumbing Foundation, 2023). Proactive replacement saves 50–70 gallons of water monthly, reducing utility bills by 8–12% (Energy Star, 2023). Neglecting this task increases the likelihood of costly repairs or full system replacement, which averages $1,500–$3,500 (Angie’s List, 2023).