Tank to Tank Installation: On average, replacing a gas or electric water tank with a similar model takes two to three hours. It takes between 45 to 60 minutes to drain, disconnect and remove your old water heater.
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.
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.
Water heaters show several signs of going bad, including lack of hot water, temperature fluctuations, decreased water pressure, strange noises, rotten egg smell, visible leaks, rusty or discolored water, and increased energy bills. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Water Heater Installation
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.
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.
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.
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it's probably reaching the end of its lifespan. Most conventional electric hot water tanks will last 10-15 years maximum. Gas-powered hot water tanks usually breakdown after 8-10 years, while tankless water heaters can last over 15 years with regular maintenance.
Poor water heater performance can sometimes stem from an anode rod that's overdue for replacement. If you notice signs of poor performance, such as discolored or rusty water, sulfuric or rotten egg smells, popping sounds from the tank, or high heating bills, inspect your water rod to determine if it needs replacement.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If your tank-style water heater can't maintain a steady supply of hot water, it might indicate the rod is bad. A deteriorating anode rod cannot manage the electrolysis process in the tank effectively, causing uneven heating of the cold water entering the tank.
Most homeowners should flush their water heaters every 6 months or so, but if you have extremely hard water, you may want to do it more often. Flushing your hot water heater could be necessary as often as every few months depending on the mineral content of your local water supply.
Anode Rod Replacement: While an anode rod costs between $20 and $50, a plumber can replace it for $50 to $150. The job typically takes about an hour. The anode rod protects the tank from corrosive materials and needs to be changed every few years. Water Heater Tank Flush: A water heater flush kit can cost around $150.
Sediment can build up over time in a water heater, shortening its lifespan. To prevent this, you should flush your water heater at least once per year. Flushing will help to remove any sediment that has built up and improve the efficiency of your water heater.
It's possible to install a new water heater on your own but generally, not recommended. That doesn't mean it's not worth considering the pros and cons of a DIY-install versus a professional installation though.
In conclusion, it's our opinion that Lowe's offers a better deal than Home Depot. While the prices of the two heaters are relatively the same, the Lowe's unit offers a higher 40,000 BTU, expanding its ability to provide hot water for a large household.
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.
And to keep the hot water flowing, we offer a variety of high-performance water heaters, including electric water heaters, energy-saving tankless water heaters, and the latest smart water heaters. Costco carries a variety of lighting that's perfect for your kitchen, bathroom, dining room, and outdoor living areas.