Setting up a water heater requires you to have robust knowledge of tools and the right permits in place. With those boxes checked, it should be possible to safely install a water heater yourself. However, your homeowner's insurance may require you to get a professional installation.
Installing a water heater requires plumbing, electrical, and carpentry skills. You'll also need a permit, an inspection from your municipality, and an understanding of state and local building codes.
Installing a water heater isn't as simple as twisting and screwing a few tubes together to complete the project. Water heaters are usually connected directly to your home's plumbing and electrical systems. Installing all the necessary plumbing fittings can be quite complex.
Most mechanically inclined people should have no problem installing a hot water heater themselves. However If you are not at all experienced in basic electricity and plumbing including there respective codes then you shouldn't attempt to install an electric hot water heater.
When it's time to replace a water heater, a licensed plumber is the best person to call. Whether a homeowner needs a simple replacement or wants to switch from a tank to a tankless water heater, a plumber will know exactly what tools and skills are required to install a new water heater.
This is because the process of installing a new water heater can be quite complex and often requires the use of special tools and equipment. Additionally, the cost of labor for this type of project can be quite high.
In certain circumstances, like if you have a leak or need to repair or replace your water heater, you must turn off the water before doing so, else you risk a flood.
Newer models require specialized tools and training to install, and the associated labor costs can add up quickly, making the total cost of the water heater higher than you expected.
It's possible to install a new water heater on your own but generally, not recommended.
The labor cost to install a water heater through Home Depot ranges between $50 and $150 per hour. On average, you will spend between $100 and $450 because the installation usually takes two to three hours.
Learning how to install a gas tank water heater can be a challenging process. Do not attempt installing a gas water heater yourself unless you're experienced and comfortable with soldering, working with natural gas and following local installation codes.
Lowe's Water Heater Installation
Let us replace and install your new water heater. Our Independent Service PROviders can help you with both tankless and traditional water heater tanks, including gas water heaters, electric water heaters and tankless gas water heaters.
According to IBHS, 69% of water heater failures are a result of a slow leak or sudden burst, causing significant water damage. Not only are these claims frequent, but IBHS also estimates that they cost an average of $4,444 per claim.
It is legal for you to install a water heater yourself or to use an unlicensed plumber to install it. However, it's not a good idea. First of all, you will still need to pull a permit and have the installation inspected no matter who does the work.
In general, plumbers cost $45 to $200 per hour, while electricians cost $50 to $100 per hour. Expect the following average price ranges for labor alone: Replacing a tank-style water heater: $150–$450. Replacing a tankless water heater: $600–$1,850.
Once you decide to (or are forced to) replace your current water heater, there are a few decisions you need to make to get the process started. If there are no issues or complications, a licensed plumber should be able to complete the process in 2-3 hours.
Perhaps the most important reason to have a professional install your water heater is the safety risk involved. Failing to install the unit properly can cause a huge explosion that could damage property and result in severe injuries.
However, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed plumber or water heater installer to handle the work. Licensed installers are far less likely to make a mistake during the installation, which means paying for the experience decreases your risk of a leak and other issues.
Replacing a water heater isn't difficult if you're handy with basic tools and have a bit of experience soldering copper. Water heaters last about 10 to 15 years, but when it's time for a new one, the need can be urgent.
Naturally, tanks that heat more gallons of water typically have a higher price point, so the larger the tank size, the more you can expect to pay. For example, the average 40-gallon water heater installation cost runs between $1,000 and $2,500, while its 80-gallon counterpart runs between $2,650 and $3,910.
Whether or not homeowners insurance covers water heater leaks depends on the specific circumstances of the leak and the terms of your policy. In general, if the leak is sudden and accidental, and not caused by your negligence, your policy will likely cover the cost of repairs.
Absolutely! After 20 years, your tank water heater is well past its life expectancy. If you have a tankless water heater, it's approaching its life expectancy. At this point, you should expect additional repairs from wear and tear.
So, how long should you let water run after a new tank-style water heater installation? Given the design style of the system, you will need to run water through for a longer time, for at least 20-30 minutes after it has been installed.
The short answer is yes, as long as you don't mind using cold water. Shutting off the input to your water heater will not affect your home's main water supply. You can still run appliances like your washing machine or dishwasher, flush your toilet, and use your shower, sink, or garden hose.
Shutting off the water supply when leaving for an extended period can prevent potential leaks or flooding while you're away.