AndreaD. said "Initial instal requires an inspection. Replacement is kinda like replacing your stove or kitchen sink.
If it is gas, you might feel better about having a plumber do it. But they don't get hydro to inspect it if it is electric. I do believe gas requires an inspection to make sure there are no gas leaks.
If it is electric, it literally plugs into the outlet that was inspected by hydro. The trickiest part is sealing the copper pipes. Which is why it is advisable to get someone who has done it as a mentor and teacher. Although the staff at Home Hardware will be able to tell you what you need. (Blowtorch and solder.) There is nothing to inspect with an electric tank.
The tanks aren't even that heavy when empty.
Edited by AndreaD., 2020-05-30 15:48:43"
A gas water heater absolutely needs an inspection every time even if it's a like for like swap. They don't just check for leaks they make sure everything is up to current code. If you old water heater is more then 5 years old it's guaranteed there's been amendments to the gas code since your last tank was installed and there's a chance the old venting, gas piping or clearances don't meet the current standards. You can't work on gas unless you have a license. You can do an electric water heater yourself if you're comfortable doing so but you can't touch the gas.
Also electric doesn't just "plug into the outlet that was inspected by hydro" it's wired directly from the breaker to a junction box then (if meeting current code) in BX to the water heater.
Finally it's the Office of the fire commissioner that does the inspections not hydro.
Please call a licensed gas fitter to work on your gas.
Brandon heating and plumbing
Or total fix are two good options.
Edited by one more thing.., 2020-05-30 17:26:51