How long should it take to put in a water heater?

Author: Lizeth Leannon  |  Last update: Friday, October 31, 2025

Installing a new water heater usually only takes 2 to 3 hours. Keep in mind that if you are switching from a tank water heater to a tankless water heater or vice versa, it could take a little longer.

How long does a water heater take to install?

Water Heater Installation Process. 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.

What is the labor cost to install a hot water heater?

Labor Cost to Install Water Heater

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.

How long should it take to fill a hot water heater?

The time it will take for your hot water heater to refill depends on the water pressure of the home. But as a general rule, it will take 30-40 minutes for a 40-gallon tank to fill up (1 minute/gallon).

Is it difficult to install a hot water heater?

It is not particularly difficult. However, it does require some knowledge and skill, especially if it is a gas water heater. If it is not done properly, it could be dangerous. Therefore, it should not be done by anyone who lacks the special knowledge required to do it safely.

How long does it take for a water heater to heat up?

Why is installing a water heater so expensive?

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.

Who is the best person to install a water heater?

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.

How long does it take to fully heat a 50-gallon water heater?

Here is a breakdown of how many gallons of water and the time it takes to heat the water. 40-gallon electric water heater – typically takes between 60 and 80 minutes. 50-gallon electric water heater – typically takes between 145 and 150 minutes.

Do you open the pressure relief valve when filling a water heater?

Open either the bleeder on the hot out line, or prop open the pressure relief valve to allow the air to be removed from the tank while your filling. All other valves attached to the tank should remain closed while filling the tank.

How to tell if air is in a hot water tank?

Having some air in the hot water line is a widespread issue all around North America. People also describe this as cloudy water or bubbles in hot water. When you open hot water, water splashes everywhere, and loud noises can be heard.

Why do plumbers charge so much to replace 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.

How much does Lowe's charge to install a hot water heater?

The price depends on whether you want an electric or gas water heater. The basic installation fee at Lowe's is around $320. But, before the contractor can set up the heater, they'll need to come to your home to check the conditions and determine the best location for it. This inspection will cost you an additional $34.

Can you install a water heater yourself?

In short: Yes, you can install a water heater on your own. There are, however, a lot of things to take into consideration. For one, you need to know what you're doing, and you need to have the proper paperwork or permits to do it.

How much does Home Depot charge to install a water heater?

The Home Depot offers traditional water heater tanks and modern tankless units, both powered by either gas or electricity. Depending on your selection, the average cost for water heater installation is between $1,600 to $5,400.

How long does it take to install a heater?

It Depends on Which Heater You Want

Which system works best for your home, and which one do you plan to install? That changes the time frame of the installation quite a bit. Furnaces can take around 4-8 hours to install, while heat pumps can take around 3-4 hours.

Will a plumber install a water heater I bought?

Licensed plumbers have the training and experience to properly install hot water heaters of all types. This includes electric and gas, tank and tankless, heat pump and geothermal. The job sometimes requires skills in addition to plumbing.

How long does it take to fill a 40 gallon water heater?

However, we can provide a rough estimate based on typical circumstances. So, under normal conditions, it would take roughly 5 to 6 minutes to fill a 40-gallon electric water heater to its full capacity.

What are the symptoms of a pressure relief valve failure?

Whether you're dealing with a pressure-reducing valve, a pressure relief valve, or check valves, there are some symptoms that they all have in common: Moisture or dripping water around the valve. Unusual noises coming from the valve, such as hissing, banging, or whistling sounds. Inconsistent system performance.

How long does it take to drain a 50 gallon water heater?

How Long Does It Take to Drain a 50-Gallon Water Heater? Draining a 50-gallon water heater for larger units usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, it's worth noting that these are approximations, and the actual time can vary.

What is the life expectancy of a 50 gallon water heater?

While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.

Why does my new water heater take so long to heat up?

Tank sediment: Minerals in your water supply settle to the bottom of the storage tank, where the burners often are. Sediment buildup in the hot water tank makes it hard for the burners to heat properly, and you end up getting lukewarm water from the water heater.

How many showers can you get out of a 50 gallon water heater?

If you use a lower volume shower head you get more showers out of the water heaters. If they are the same wattage and you get 2 1/2 showers out of the 50 gallon heater then you will get 4 out of the 80 gallong heater.

Is Rheem or AO Smith a better water heater?

If you're looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective water heater, Rheemhas the edge over A.O. Smith. With superior energy efficiency, longer warranties, and better overall performance, Rheem units are designed to meet the needs of modern homeowners.

Who do you call for a new water heater?

Your plumber is the person to talk to about what it will take for more complicated water heater installations, such as larger capacity units, installing a gas water heater in place of an electric model, or switching to a tankless unit.

What is the labor cost to install a 40 gallon hot water heater?

The cost to replace a 40-gallon water heater is $600 to $1,600 for an electric unit or $900 to $3,000+ for a gas unit, including installation labor. A 40-gallon water heater costs $400 to $2,000 for the unit alone, depending on the brand, features, energy efficiency, and fuel type.

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