How much does it cost to install a 40 gallon electric water heater?

Author: Prof. Samson Muller I  |  Last update: Sunday, May 4, 2025

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.

What is the average labor cost to install an electric 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 much does it cost to replace a 40-gallon electric 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.

How much does Lowe's charge to install a 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.

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.

40 / 48 Gallon Electric Water Heater Replacement Cost 2023

How long does it take to install a 40-gallon hot water heater?

How long does it take to install a 40-gallon hot water heater? For tank-to-tank installation, anticipate up to three to four hours.

Does Home Depot provide water heater installation?

The Home Depot partners with local, licensed and insured professionals to help homeowners choose the right water heater for their home. If you live within 30 miles of a Home Depot store and call us before noon at 1-800-HOME-DEPOT, our team offers same-day installation.

Who is best 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.

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.

What is the life expectancy of a 40-gallon electric water heater?

A standard 40-gallon tank will last between 10 and 15 years while larger tanks (50 gallons) have a lifespan of up to 20 years. If you live in an area with hard water, the life expectancy of your water heater may be much shorter than if you lived in an area with soft water.

How long of a shower can you take with a 40-gallon water heater?

For instance, a typical shower uses about 10 gallons of hot water. So, if you have a 40-gallon hot water tank, you should be able to get four average-length showers out of your hot water tank. This also depends on how much hot water you use for other things.

Does home insurance cover a water heater?

It's important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies typically only cover damage to the structure of your home and personal property. They do not include replacement cost coverage for the heater itself.

How much will my electric bill go up with an electric water heater?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 18% of your electricity costs are directly tied to your water heating system. If you've noticed a rise in your recent electric bills, don't start taking cold showers just yet.

How much does it cost to put in a 50 gallon electric water heater?

The average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $700 to $1,800 for an electric unit or $1,000 to $3,100+ for a gas unit, including labor. A 50-gallon water heater costs $500 to $2,100 for the unit alone, depending on the fuel type, energy efficiency, features, and brand.

How much to replace a 40 gallon electric water heater?

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.

How much does Lowes charge to install a 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. Once you purchase the project, a trusted independent installer will contact you to schedule your installation.

What water heaters do plumbers recommend?

AO Smith, State, and Bradford White are all very dependable brands and are known by professional plumbers for top-quality gas and electric water heaters. Master plumber Eddie Heil put it this way, “AO Smith, State, and Bradford White are all great choices in our experience.

Who should I call to install a water heater?

The short answer is that plumbers typically service water heaters, whether it's gas or electric. An electrician may also be able to fix an electric hot water heater, assuming the problem is electrical. Maybe you're wondering if you can DIY the solution or if you need to call a water heater pro.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a 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.

How long does it take to install an electric water heater?

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.

Can I install a water heater myself?

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. Save yourself the hassle with our gas water heater installation services which include removal of the old water heater.

How long of a shower can you take with a 40 gallon tank?

A 40-gallon water heater can provide up to 2 showers in an hour (if you're not using any other water appliances).

How much labor does it cost to replace a water heater?

What is the average labor cost to replace an electric hot water heater? The cost of labor might range from $150 to $1,000 or more, however, depending on the type and size of the water heater. The cost of replacing a 50-gallon hot water heater will vary depending on the type of heater you choose.

How long should a 40 gallon electric hot water heater last?

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.

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