A 40-gallon water heater weighs between 80 to 127 pounds (36 to 58 kg) when empty. Once the tank is completely filled with 40 gallons of water, the added weight of the water (
An empty 40-gallon hot water heater typically weighs between 100 to 150 lbs (45 to 68 kg). This weight varies depending on the brand, whether it is an electric or gas model, and if it features heavy-duty insulation.
Understanding the value of scrap water heaters can significantly impact your bottom line. With steel prices ranging from $0.05–$0.08 per pound, a standard residential tank can yield $10–$25. Larger commercial units may bring in $50 or more. Staying informed about market fluctuations is crucial for accurate estimates.
Keep the top of the tank free of dust, debris and flammable products such as paint, gasoline, solvents or adhesives. Also, never use these products near a water heater or any other natural gas or electric appliance because vapors from flammable liquids can ignite.
The longest-lasting water heater brands are Bradford White and Rheem (specifically the Marathon series). Bradford White is favored by plumbers for professional installations and longevity, while the Rheem Marathon uses a unique fiberglass tank backed by a true lifetime warranty.
Only heat the hot water twice a day
Try heating the water for an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening. Start the water heating about an hour before you need it. For example, if you shower at 08:30, start heating the water at 07:30. If you wash up in the evening at 19:30, then start the water heating at 18:30.
A 40-gallon tank water heater installation costs $700 to $2,300, with an average cost of $1,650. Prices vary based on energy source and installation complexity. The national average cost to install a 40-gallon tank water heater ranges from $700 to $2,300.
A class action settlement (West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company, and Melet Plastics, Inc.) resolved allegations that specific Rheem water heaters with round poly drain valves (sold between 2019 and 2023) are defective and prone to leaking. The final deadline to submit a claim for this settlement was March 20, 2026.
Rheem 40-gallon electric water heaters generally receive positive reviews for their easy setup, quiet operation, and reliable hot water delivery for 2 to 4-person households. While standard resistance models are highly affordable, premium hybrid and smart versions stand out for drastically lowering long-term energy costs and offering advanced damage-prevention features.
Copper is the leading choice in scrap metal values today. In early 2026, current prices for premium grades have surged well past $4 per pound, making it highly lucrative for waste management operations.
Installing a 40-gallon hot water heater typically takes 2 to 4 hours for a professional plumber to complete a standard, like-for-like replacement. This process includes draining the old tank, disconnecting lines, installing the new unit, and testing it. Complex installations, such as those requiring code upgrades, may take up to 6 hours.
Lowe's gas water heater installation costs typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 total, depending on the unit size and your location. The labor and permit fees alone generally cost between $600 and $1,200, while the gas water heater unit itself adds $400 to $1,300+ to the overall price.
To move a water heater safely by yourself, start by completely disconnecting, draining, and securing the tank. Water is incredibly heavy (about 8.33 lbs per gallon), so you must empty it completely before attempting to lift or transport it.
Rheem is owned by Paloma Co., Ltd. (Paloma Industries), a privately held Japanese manufacturer of gas appliances and HVAC equipment based in Nagoya, Japan. Paloma acquired the Rheem brand in 1988.
To check if your unit is affected by a safety recall, locate the rating plate near the bottom of the unit. The most significant voluntary recall involves Rheem "Performance Platinum" electric water heaters (40, 50, and 80-gallon) sold at Home Depot between 2014 and 2016.
Affordable Upfront Cost: Rheem systems are often significantly more budget-friendly, allowing you to get a high-quality unit without the financial strain.
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 standard tank installation is generally between $1,600 to $2,400. Tankless installation can range from $2,400 to $5,400.
The "best" water heater depends on your preferred fuel type and whether you want a traditional tank or a tankless system. Master plumbers and consumer experts consistently rank Rheem, A. O. Smith, and Bradford White as top overall brands.
Professional installation costs to replace a water heater
The more hours of electrical, carpentry and plumbing work that are required for your installation (for example, installing new electric, water or gas lines or drywall), the higher your total water heater replacement cost.
If you're not sure how long it takes, try turning the heating on about 30 minutes before you need it. You should turn it off 30 minutes before you'll stop needing it. You might need to turn on your heating earlier if your home takes longer to reach a comfortable temperature.
A 10-minute shower typically uses 12 to 25 gallons (45 to 95 liters) of hot water. The exact amount depends on your showerhead's flow rate and the temperature you prefer (as hot water is mixed with cold):
Yes, turning off a hot water heater saves electricity by stopping standby heat loss. However, the savings for daily on/off cycling are minimal (around 5% to 12% of your water heating bill, or about $20 to $70 per year). The unit consumes a large amount of energy to reheat the cooled water, and repeatedly flipping the circuit breaker can cause wear and tear.