Ep 11. Tankless Heater, Retaining Wall

In season 16, episode 11 of Ask This Old House, the team tackles two home improvement projects. First, they help a homeowner replace her old water heater with a new tankless one. The team removes the old system and installs the new one, demonstrating the steps necessary for proper installation.

The team also helps another homeowner with a retaining wall project. The homeowner has a sloping backyard and wants to add a retaining wall to level it out. The team demonstrates how to properly level the wall and install a drainage system to prevent water damage.

The episode opens with Tommy Silva, the show's general contractor, visiting a homeowner who wants to replace her old water heater with a new tankless one. The homeowner explains that her old water heater was causing problems, and she wants to switch to a more energy-efficient system. Tommy explains the benefits of a tankless water heater, including lower energy costs and a longer lifespan. The team then begins the installation process, removing the old system, and installing the new tankless water heater. They explain the steps involved in installing a tankless water heater, including proper venting, electrical wiring, and piping.

Next, the team visits another homeowner who wants to build a retaining wall in her backyard to level out the sloping ground. They first explain the importance of proper preparation, including measuring and digging out the area for the wall. The team then installs a base layer of gravel to help with drainage and helps the homeowner level the base layer of blocks. They demonstrate proper construction techniques, including using a level to ensure the blocks are straight and secure. The team also installs a drainage system to prevent water damage to the wall.

Throughout the episode, the team explains the importance of safety and proper installation techniques, emphasizing the importance of hiring the right professionals for home improvement projects. They also provide tips and tricks on how homeowners can save money and energy, such as investing in energy-efficient appliances and performing regular maintenance on their home systems.

Overall, season 16, episode 11 of Ask This Old House provides valuable information for homeowners interested in home improvement projects, from the benefits of tankless water heaters to the proper installation of retaining walls. The team's expertise and attention to detail make this episode a valuable resource for homeowners looking to tackle home improvement projects themselves.