Will a plumber install a water heater I bought?

Author: Rhea Kerluke  |  Last update: Friday, March 14, 2025

Local plumbers don't typically install water heaters (or other equipment) that a homeowner already has acquired elsewhere. The plumber does not know where it came from, can't ensure what it is, or know it's right for your home.

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.

Who installs a new 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.

Are you allowed to install your own water heater?

It is legal for you to install a water heater yourself or to use an unlicensed plumber to install it. However, it's not a good idea. First of all, you will still need to pull a permit and have the installation inspected no matter who does the work.

Do plumbers deal with water heaters?

plumbers typically install hot water heaters. Installing a hot water heater involves both plumbing and electrical work, and professional plumbers are trained and experienced in handling these installations.

Do I need a plumber to install a water heater?

Can I buy a water heater and have a plumber install it?

Local plumbers don't typically install water heaters (or other equipment) that a homeowner already has acquired elsewhere. The plumber does not know where it came from, can't ensure what it is, or know it's right for your home.

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.

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.

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. 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.

Do you need a professional to install a hot water heater?

Ultimately, even if it saves you some money to try and install the water heater yourself, CNET recommends that you call an expert to do the job. "The best thing to do is to call a plumber," says Thompson.

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.

How long does it take for a plumber to install a new water heater?

Water Heater Installation Process. 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.

Should I call a plumber or electrician for hot water heater?

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.

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.

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.

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.

Who is best to install a water heater?

Plumbing Expertise

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.

Is Rheem or AO Smith a better water heater?

If you're looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective water heater, Rheemhas the edge over A.O. Smith. With superior energy efficiency, longer warranties, and better overall performance, Rheem units are designed to meet the needs of modern homeowners.

What is the life expectancy of a water heater?

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.

Do plumbers do hot water heaters?

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.

What is the average cost to install 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.

Will Lowes install my water heater?

Lowe's Water Heater Installation

Let us replace and install your new water heater. Our Independent Service PROviders can help you with both tankless and traditional water heater tanks, including gas water heaters, electric water heaters and tankless gas water heaters.

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.

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 often should I flush my hot water heater?

Flush your water heater every six months or so. If you have harder water, or water that contains more minerals, you may want to flush it more often.

Previous article
What are the 7 major requirements of a hydroponic system?
Next article
What product removes black mold from shower?