Your plumber is the person to talk to about what it will take for more complicated water heater installations, such as larger capacity units, installing a gas water heater in place of an electric model, or switching to a tankless unit.
Answer: A professional plumber is typically needed to replace water heater.
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.
Your cost for residential water heater installation also typically varies based on location, with most units and installation costs ranging between $960 and $3,910 across the United States. Most units plus installation cost between $2,500 and $4,500 for business owners.
It may seem the obvious call would be to a plumber, but your local HVAC service provider can also handle your water heater service issues.
A licensed plumber should be called to install your new water heater. This can be a difficult and dangerous job for the untrained individual, so it is always a safer bet to call a professionally trained and licensed plumber to complete the job quickly and correctly.
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.
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.
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.
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.
After buying a new water heater from a plumbing company, it is installed by a licensed plumber. He or she performs all work necessary to place your new system into service for your family's use.
Even the most fearless DIYers should not attempt to install a water heater. Installing a water heater requires plumbing, electrical, and carpentry skills. You'll also need a permit, an inspection from your municipality, and an understanding of state and local building codes.
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.
In general, a licensed plumber is the better person to call when you experience initial hot water heater troubles. However, there are plumbing-specific situations in particular that indicate that it is better to call a plumber than an electrician. Those situations include: Strange noises coming from the water heater.
Water Heaters May Be Covered as Personal Property
In some rare cases, the water heater itself may be covered as personal property. This means that it can be replaced or repaired if a loss occurs due to a peril that's covered by your insurance policy, such as: A fire in your home. Hurricanes or tornadoes.
What does Allstate cover? Your water heater is covered for all labor costs associated with repairs (including thermostats, heating elements, control boards, igniters, and more) or replacing it if required. Cost of parts is not covered.
Consider insulating your electric water heater if it's warm to the touch. Water heater insulation could reduce standby heat losses by 25%–45% and save you about 7%–16% in water heating costs—and should pay for itself in about a year. You can find pre-cut jackets or blankets available from around $20.
Common Reasons for a Leaking Water Heater
A cracked or corroded water heater tank. Loose or faulty fittings and pipe connections. Improperly installed temperature and pressure relief valve. Worn out anode rod to protect the hot water tank from corrosion.
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.
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.
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.
Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the average life expectancy of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.
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 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.