I installed a 40 gal. gas hot-water heater today. All connections are finished - good job I think, but when I turned on the gate-valve in the cold water inlet line (to fill it for the first time) I couldn't hear, or feel, any water going into the heater. I have opened the hot water faucets in the house (as per the directions) to allow the cold water to flow into the heater. I think the heater is at least partially filled - judging by its weight, and the fact that if I open the drain valve on the botton of the heater, some water will come out.

I'm wondering if it's now safe to light the pilot light (new gas line is connected with no leaks), or should I do a more through exam. To determine if the tank is truly full of water, or not. I guess I could do that by connecting a hose to the drain outlet, then opening the drain valve, and try to tell how much water comes out.

I don't know what your thinking, BUT if you have a similar stream of cold water coming out of the hot and cold faucets everything is fine.

Water enters the heater at the bottom of the tank through a dip tube. You'll only hear a short rush.

Open the laundry and tub faucets and wait until the water stops sputtering. You have then removed the air. Actually open the faucet at the end of the line. I usually open the laundry and bathtub because:
1. The laundry is the closest
2. The bathtub is at the end of the line
3. Faucets full open won't make a mess.

Then I turn the water on slowly and partially until I get a steady stream, then close off the valves. Open the hot water inlet full and then go and open the other valves until the sputtering ceases. Complicated... but works.

I agree with KeepitSimplestupid, open all the faucets as he instructed you to remove all the air, once it is done and you a have steady stream of water now you are ready to let the pilot and turn on your heater, good luck and enjoy your new water heater, Thanks.

John

Pop your relief valve and see if hot water comes out

Hello Tmack,

Welcome to the plumbing website, this is a 2 ½ years old thread and I think it is closed by now, Thanks.

John