How much does it cost to replace a 40-gallon water heater?

Author: Cale Satterfield  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 6, 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 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.

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.

What is the lifespan of a 40-gallon 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 much should labor cost to replace a 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.

Actual Cost For a New Water Heater (Complete Breakdown)

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.

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 to tell if a water heater needs replacing?

Signs a Water Heater is Going Bad
  1. Your Water Heater Makes Strange Noises. ...
  2. Decreased or Varying Water Temperature. ...
  3. Low Water Pressure. ...
  4. Discolored or Rusty Water. ...
  5. Hot Water Shortage. ...
  6. Water Heater Leaks. ...
  7. Frequent Repairs. ...
  8. Age of Hot Water Heater.

What is the most reliable brand of hot water heater?

The Lifestory Research 2024 America's Most Trusted® Water Heater ranking is based on 6,547 opinions of people surveyed in the United States over the last 12 months. The most trusted water heater brands in order were Bosch, Whirlpool, Rheem, GE, Kenmore, AO Smith, Ruud, Bradford White, and Rinnai.

Should I replace my 20 year old water heater?

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.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

Are tankless water heaters worth it?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters

The initial cost of a tankless water heater is greater than that of a conventional storage water heater, but tankless water heaters will typically last longer and have lower operating and energy costs, which could offset their higher purchase price.

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.

What water heater 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.

How much should I spend on a water heater?

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.

Is Rheem better than AO Smith?

Rheem is generally the better choice due to its higher energy efficiency (up to 0.93 UEF), longer lifespan (12-15 years), better warranty (12 years), and advanced features like EcoNet™ technology. While A.O.

Should I replace a 10 year old water heater?

If you suspect your water heater is more than 10 years old—it is time to consider replacing it before you're left with an emergency decision. To determine the age of your water heater, you'll need to identify the Brand Name and Serial Number for your unit.

What are the signs of a water heater going bad?

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.

What maintenance does a water heater need?

Care for your unit by checking these common issues annually: Check for leaks. Flush the tank. Test the temperature and pressure relief valve.

Does Home Depot install water heaters?

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.

Do you call a plumber for 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.

How much does it cost for a plumber to check a water heater?

If so, you're probably wondering how much a maintenance visit will cost you. The cost of water heater maintenance ranges from $75 to $300+, depending on the following factors: What the plumber checks during a maintenance visit. Whether you choose a single visit or an annual maintenance plan.

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