Key Takeaways:
| Main Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Tank Replacement Cost | $600 – $3,100 |
| Tankless Installation Cost | $1,400 – $5,600 |
| Water Heater Types | Includes standard tank, tankless, solar, indirect, and hybrid heat pump |
| Conversion Costs | Electric to gas: $400 – $2,000+; Gas to electric: $250 – $1,000+ |
Water Heater Installation Or Replacement Cost Overview
Understanding the costs associated with installing or replacing a water heater is crucial for budgeting and choosing the best option for your home.
Standard Tank Replacement Cost
Replacing a standard tank water heater typically ranges from $600 to $3,100. This cost includes both unit price and installation expenses.
Tankless Installation Cost
Installing a tankless water heater can be more expensive, ranging from $1,400 to $5,600. This price reflects higher unit costs and more complex installation requirements.
Water Heater Installation Cost
Understanding the different costs associated with each water heater type is crucial when planning your project.
| Type | Average Unit Price* | Average Installed Cost** |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tank (40 – 50 gal) | $400 – $2,100 | $600 – $3,100 |
| Tankless Water Heater | $600 – $2,600 | $1,400 – $5,600 |
| Solar Water Heater | $1,000 – $6,000 | $3,000 – $9,000 |
| Indirect Water Heater | $1,500 – $3,000 | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Hybrid Heat Pump | $1,500 – $3,000 | $2,000 – $4,600 |
Water Heater Replacement Cost
When considering replacement costs, it’s important to account for the type and size of the unit, as well as labor expenses.
Standard Tank Water Heater
Here are the average costs for standard tank water heaters based on their size:
| Tank Size (Gallons) | Average Unit Price* | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Gallon | $300 – $900 | $500 – $1,900 |
| 40 Gallon | $400 – $2,000 | $600 – $3,000 |
| 50 Gallon | $500 – $2,100 | $700 – $3,100 |
| 65 Gallon | $700 – $2,400 | $900 – $3,400 |
| 75 Gallon | $900 – $2,600 | $1,100 – $3,600 |
| 80 Gallon | $1,000 – $3,000 | $1,200 – $4,000 |
Tankless Water Heater vs. Standard Tank Water Heater
Let’s compare the costs and features of tankless water heaters with standard tank water heaters.
| Factor | Tankless Water Heater | Tank Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Average Installed Cost | $1,400 – $5,600 | $600 – $3,100 |
| Annual Operating Cost | $220 – $480 (gas), $340 – $540 (electric) | $250 – $420 (gas), $530 – $600 (electric) |
| Lifespan | 15 – 20 years | 8 – 12 years |
| Pros | Uninterrupted hot water available instantly, enhanced energy efficiency, compact design, consistent temperature | Lower upfront cost, easier installation, minimal maintenance requirements, higher flow rate, reduced likelihood of mineral build-up issues |
| Cons | Initial costs are higher, installation is more complex, restricted flow rate | Energy inefficient resulting in higher utility bills, limited hot water available, takes up more space, tanks can rust, crack, or leak over time |
Solar Water Heater
Solar water heaters are an option for those looking to leverage renewable energy, but they come with higher initial costs ranging from $3,000 to $9,000.
Indirect Water Heater
Indirect water heaters use your home’s existing heating system and typically cost between $2,000 and $4,500 to install.
Hybrid Heat Pump
Hybrid heat pumps are energy-efficient and cost between $2,000 and $4,600 to install.
Hot Water Heater Installation Cost Factors
The cost of installing a hot water heater can vary based on several factors.
Labor Cost To Install A Water Heater
Labor costs for installing a water heater generally range from $150 to $1,000, depending on the complexity of the installation and local labor rates.
Cost To Convert From Electric To Gas Water Heater
Converting from one fuel source to another can incur additional costs.
| Conversion Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Electric to Gas | $400 – $2,000+ |
| Gas to Electric | $250 – $1,000+ |
What Size Water Heater Do I Need?
Selecting the appropriate size for your water heater is crucial for ensuring efficiency and sufficient hot water supply.
| People In House | Tank Size (Gallons) | Tankless Flow Rate (GPM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – 2 | 23 – 30 | 4 – 8 |
| 2 – 3 | 36 – 40 | 6 – 9 |
| 3 – 4 | 40 – 60 | 7 – 10 |
| 5+ | 50 – 80 | 9 – 11+ |
Water Heater FAQs
When Should I Replace My Water Heater?
You should consider replacing your water heater if it’s more than 10 years old, is leaking, or is unable to provide adequate hot water.
Who Installs Water Heaters?
Licensed plumbers and HVAC technicians are typically qualified to install water heaters.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Water Heater?
Replacing a water heater generally takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the type and complexity of the installation.
How Long Do Hot Water Heaters Last?
On average, tank water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, while tankless units can last up to 20 years.
How Much Does Hot Water Heater Service Cost?
Routine maintenance service costs for water heaters range from $75 to $200, depending on the extent of the servicing required.
How Much Does It Cost To Run A Water Heater?
Operating costs vary depending on the type of water heater.
| Type | Monthly Cost To Run | Annual Cost To Run |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Tank) | $21 – $35 | $250 – $420 |
| Gas (Tankless) | $18 – $40 | $220 – $480 |
| Electric (Tank) | $44 – $50 | $530 – $600 |
| Electric (Tankless) | $28 – $45 | $340 – $540 |
| Hybrid Heat Pump (Tank) | $13 – $16 | $160 – $190 |
Hiring A Plumber To Install A Water Heater
Questions To Ask A Plumber
When hiring a plumber, consider asking the following questions:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What’s your experience with installing and replacing water heaters?
- Can you provide a detailed estimate including parts and labor?
- Do you offer any warranty on your work?
- How long will the installation or replacement take?
By understanding these costs and factors, we can make informed decisions about water heater installations and replacements. This knowledge ensures we choose the right type and size for our needs and budget.
Related Cost Guides
For more detailed information on related home improvement projects, check out these guides:
- Water Heater Repair Cost: Discover the typical costs associated with repairing different types of water heaters and learn about common repair issues and solutions.
- Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement Cost: Understand the costs involved in replacing a gas valve in your water heater, including labor and part expenses.
- Solar Water Heater Cost: Get detailed information on the costs of installing and maintaining solar water heaters, including tax credits, rebates, and other incentives.
