Installing a standard electric water heater is a highly manageable DIY project if you are replacing an old tank with a similar model in the same spot. However, gas models, tankless units, or installations that require moving plumbing or electrical lines involve higher risks and are best left to professionals.
You need to be handy with plumbing tools, familiar with your home's plumbing setup and have some electrical know-how if the heater is electric. Gas heaters add another layer of complexity, requiring safe handling of gas lines and proper ventilation. DIY installation carries risks.
The Home Depot strongly recommends that you use an experienced, licensed plumber to install your new water heater, because they will know the required codes to complete a safe and compliant installation.
Average Water Heater Installation Cost
Mid-range installations, which may involve larger tanks or higher-efficiency models, typically cost $1,500 to $2,500. High-end installations, such as tankless systems or jobs that require major electrical, gas, or venting upgrades, can reach $3,000 to $4,000 or more.
With a 40-gallon tank, your hot shower will typically last about 10 to 20 minutes. The exact duration depends heavily on your showerhead's flow rate and the temperature you set your water heater to.
A 20-minute shower typically uses between 30 and 50 gallons of water, depending heavily on your showerhead's flow rate.
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 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.
Some of the most reliable tank water heater brands in 2026 include Rheem, A.O. Smith, and Bradford White. These manufacturers have long histories of producing durable, efficient heaters with strong warranty coverage. Rheem is known for overall dependability and wide availability, A.O.
A 50-gallon water heater is generally considered the "sweet spot" and is perfectly sufficient for a family of four, provided your household follows a few common-sense habits:
If the project is as simple as replacing an old water heater with a new one, a handyman can likely do it with no trouble. However, converting a gas water heater to an electric one or putting in specific wiring and framing for the water heater will likely require the skill set of a licensed professional.
Plumbers deal with water heaters, generally.
Licensed plumbers install tank and tankless water heaters, including gas, electric, and hybrid heat pump systems. Home Depot and Lowe's also offer water heater installation through their network of licensed plumbers.
Traditional tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years, while tankless models typically last 15 to 20 years. Lifespans vary greatly depending on water quality, unit design, and whether you perform regular maintenance like flushing the tank and checking the anode rod.
Water heaters combine electricity or natural gas with pressurized water—three elements that can be extremely dangerous if not handled correctly. An unsafe installation can result in: Gas leaks that could cause carbon monoxide poisoning or explosions. Electrical hazards leading to shocks or fire.
What Next After a New Water Heater Installation?
We recommend going with Rheem, specifically for the Professional Series with 8 Year Warranty.
There isn't a single "number 1" model, as the ideal water heater depends on your home's setup, but top-rated brands dominating the market include Rheem (best overall tank/tankless) and A.O. Smith (best for durability and commercial-grade units).
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.
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's often include removal when delivering a replacement unit. This is the most convenient option, especially if the old unit is still in place and connected.
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 are looking to properly decommission, drain, or dismantle an old water heater for replacement, the process involves safely shutting off the power and water, completely draining the tank, and carefully disconnecting the plumbing.
A 10-minute shower typically uses 12 to 25 gallons of hot water, depending on your showerhead's flow rate and how hot you keep the water.
While a water heater can sit directly on concrete, it is generally recommended to elevate it to prevent rust from moisture absorption. Placing it on a stand, concrete pad, bricks, or pavers helps prevent corrosion and makes it easier to drain.