If you have gable vents that lead into the attic it is a good idea to install a screen behind them to keep those critters out.
How to lift water heater into attic.
Raise the heater up have a second person control the motion and guide it through the access point.
How to hoist 50 gallon water heater into attic.
For gas water heater open the temperature pressure relief valve at the top of the tank by lifting the lever.
Use a cargo tie down ratcheting strap around the heater 2.
Run your cable thru the runs of both tees and attach to the drop cable you are making a triangle with the base of the triangle at the top of the water heater and the peak of the triangle at a point that will allow you to raise the heater to the attic.
I have a manual chain hoist that will work just fine but not sure if it will damage the water heater to secure the hoist to the inlet outlet nipples.
Go up into the attic and stand on the rafters not the stairs 4.
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