What is the average labor cost to replace a hot water tank?

Author: Jazmin Hudson  |  Last update: Sunday, February 9, 2025

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.

Why do plumbers charge so much to replace water heater?

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.

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 it cost to remove and replace a 50 gallon 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 does Lowe's charge to install a hot 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.

How to Figure the Cost of Replacing a Water Heater

How much does a plumber charge to install a new 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 Home Depot charge to replace a hot water heater?

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.

How much does it cost to remove a hot water tank?

Depending on its size and location, the standalone hot water tank removal cost is around £135. However, to remove your hot water tank and install a new boiler instead, you're looking at an estimated £2,800.

How long does it take to remove and replace a hot 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.

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.

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.

What is the best water heater brand?

Conclusion. Choosing the best water heater brand includes considering factors like energy efficiency, capacity, and the sort of water heater that suits your household's needs. Brands like A.O. Smith, Rheem, Bradford White, Bosch, and EcoSmart offer a extend of dependable and productive choices.

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

Traditional Tank

The water is heated at least once a day to ensure a steady and ready supply of hot water. On average, these water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. They're often affected by sediment buildup. Annual flushing of the tank can help to extend a tanked water heater's lifespan.

How long do hot water tanks last?

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.

How much does it cost to put in a 40 gallon 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.

How can plumbers charge so much?

Plumbing Requires Parts

Unless you're calling us over to simply unclog a drain, we'll need some “stuff” to fix your plumbing problem: pipe, fittings, hardware, appliances (like a garbage disposal), putty, valves, and so on. The costs of parts and materials get factored in to your bill.

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.

Do you need to shut off the water when replacing water heater?

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.

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.

How much is a scrap hot water heater worth?

Scrap Water Heater Value

Water heaters can be worth anywhere between $7–30, depending on the size and materials its made from.

How many years can you get out of a hot water tank?

In some cases when your water heater leaks or doesn't heat up, you may be able to repair the existing unit. But it's helpful to start by determining the service life of the appliance. Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the average life expectancy of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a water heater?

For a standard water heater replacement, installation usually takes between 2 to 3 hours. The technicians will remove the old unit, install the new one, and ensure everything is connected and working perfectly.

What is the best hot water tank?

5 Water Heaters You Can Count on, According to Testing
  • Best Overall. A.O. Smith Signature 900 Smart Electric Water Heater With Hybrid Heat Pump. Read more.
  • Best Value. Rheem 50 Gallon Natural Gas Water Heater. Read more.
  • Best Tankless. A.O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heater with Scale Prevention. Read more.

Can I replace a water heater myself?

In short: Yes, you can install a water heater on your own. There are, however, a lot of things to take into consideration. For one, you need to know what you're doing, and you need to have the proper paperwork or permits to do it.

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