When it’s time to replace a water heater, a licensed plumber is the best person to call. Whether a homeowner needs a simple replacement or wants to switch from a tank to a tankless water heater, a plumber will know exactly what tools and skills are required to install a new water heater. Plus, they’ll likely be up to speed on any permit requirements or unique codes that must be adhered to when putting a new water heater in a home. They can also remove the old unit and dispose of or recycle the tank so the homeowner doesn’t have to. Homeowners who are unfamiliar with local plumbers can search online for “water heater repair near me” for a list of reliable professionals in their area.
I’ve seen firsthand how a skilled plumber can make this process seamless. When my own water heater gave out, I tried to shop around for quotes and quickly realized that not all plumbers are created equal. Some offered to handle everything from picking the right model to navigating local building codes, which saved me a ton of hassle. If you’re considering a tankless model, keep in mind that it requires specific expertise due to the gas or electrical upgrades involved. A good tip is to ask your plumber about energy-efficient options—some regions even offer rebates for installing high-efficiency units, which can shave a few hundred bucks off your upfront costs. Always check if your plumber is licensed and insured; it’s a small step that can save you big headaches down the road.
It Takes About 2 to 3 Hours to Install a New Water Heater
Although it’s not a complicated process, it may take a licensed plumber or professional appliance technician anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to put a new water heater in place. First, they’ll need to drain the water from the old model, disconnect the heater, and remove it entirely. Hot water tanks can be heavy, too, so this may take more time if the heater is located in an upstairs attic or utility closet. Then, the new water heater will need to be put in place, which can take about 30 minutes. Once the heater is in place, the technician or plumber will likely take another hour or so to ensure the heater is hooked up correctly and functioning according to code. This process can take longer if the plumber does a tank-to-tankless installation since new power and water lines are required.
From what I’ve learned talking to plumbers, the timeline can vary depending on your home’s setup. For instance, if your water heater is tucked away in a tight spot, like a cramped basement corner, it might push the job closer to the 3-hour mark. Tankless installations are trickier—sometimes taking up to 5 hours if new gas lines or venting systems are needed. One pro tip: clear the area around your water heater before the plumber arrives. It sounds simple, but it can shave off some time and maybe even a bit of the labor cost. Also, if you’re curious about the process, ask your plumber to walk you through it as they work—it’s fascinating to see how they ensure everything meets safety standards.
Water Heater Replacement Costs an Average of $1,200
If the current water heater is on its last leg or is 10 to 15 years old, it may be time to start saving now for a replacement. Water heater replacement costs anywhere from $800 to $1,700, depending on the type and size of the water heater. Labor to install a water heater usually runs about $150 to $450, but that can increase to as much as $2,500 if a homeowner chooses to switch from a tank to a tankless water heater. Although they tend to cost more, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years, so the expense will be compensated for over time. If a homeowner doesn’t already have a plumber they know and trust, it may be wise to get at least three quotes to get a better idea of the average water heater cost in the area.
I’ve found that costs can really depend on where you live—urban areas tend to have higher labor rates, sometimes pushing the total closer to $2,000 for a standard tank model. Tankless heaters, while pricier upfront, can be a smart investment if you plan to stay in your home long-term. For example, a friend of mine switched to a tankless unit and saw their energy bill drop by about 15% annually, which adds up over the years. To keep costs down, consider scheduling your replacement during a plumber’s slower season, like early spring or fall, when they might offer discounts. Also, don’t skip the quotes—when I got three estimates for my heater, the prices varied by nearly $500, which made a big difference in my budget.
Upgrading a Water Heater to Meet Modern Standards Can Be a More Intensive Project
Depending on how old the current water heater is and the model it’s being replaced with, this project may require much more labor if the plumber needs to make upgrades to meet current standards and codes. If a homeowner is upgrading to a tankless gas water heater, for example, it will need to be retrofitted with new water lines, new gas lines, and a new ventilation system. While it may pay off over time, this is a much more expensive and extensive project up front, so it’s something to consider when deciding what type of water heater to install to replace an old one.
Upgrading to a modern water heater can feel like a big leap, especially if your current unit is decades old. I’ve spoken with folks who made the switch to tankless and were shocked at the upfront work involved—sometimes requiring new electrical panels or gas line reconfigurations. The good news? These upgrades often improve your home’s overall safety and efficiency. For instance, modern codes might require better venting to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, which is a lifesaver. If you’re on the fence about going tankless, talk to your plumber about hybrid models—they combine tank and tankless tech for a middle-ground option that’s less invasive to install but still energy-efficient. Just be ready for a higher initial cost, sometimes 30-40% more than a standard tank replacement.
Water Heater Installation Is No DIY Job
Water heater woes are no joke, regardless of whether you need a basic repair or a full-on replacement. When you need to know who installs water heaters, you can generally count on a licensed plumber to get the job done right. These professionals will be able to recommend a specific type of water heater based on the home’s needs and will be up to date on any local codes and permit requirements for the installation. Since this job can entail heavy lifting, proper draining, and water hookups, it’s best to hire someone instead of trying a DIY approach.
I get the temptation to go DIY—saving money is always appealing—but water heaters are tricky beasts. A buddy of mine tried installing one himself and ended up with a flooded basement and a hefty repair bill. The heavy lifting alone is no joke; a 50-gallon tank can weigh over 100 pounds even when drained. Plus, messing up the gas or electrical connections can be dangerous—think leaks or even fire hazards. If you’re set on doing some of the work, maybe stick to prepping the space or shopping for the unit with your plumber’s guidance. But for the actual installation, trust the pros to handle the technical stuff and keep your home safe.
You Can Use the 50 Percent Rule to Decide Between Repairing and Replacing a Water Heater
A newer water heater may need a simple repair to get it back in working condition, but it’s worth applying the 50 percent rule to make the best decision for the benefit of the home and its hot water. The 50 percent rule states that if a repair, whether minor or major, costs roughly 50 percent of what it would cost to replace the appliance, it’s better to get a new one. For example, if a homeowner receives an estimate of $800 to repair the water heater, that is more than 50 percent of the cost of a new water heater, which averages about $1,200 to install. This rule can help make a decision that won’t cost extra time or money in the long run.
This rule has been a game-changer for me when dealing with appliance repairs. Last year, I got a $600 quote to fix my water heater, which was already 12 years old. Since a new one would’ve cost around $1,100, I decided to replace it instead of sinking money into a unit that might fail again soon. If your heater’s under 10 years old, repairs might make sense, especially for minor issues like a faulty thermostat. But if it’s older, check its warranty—some brands like Rheem cover parts for up to 6 years, which can lower repair costs. Always weigh the age of your unit and its efficiency; older models can nickel-and-dime you with frequent fixes.
Newer Water Heaters Are More Efficient Than Older Models
The good news is that today’s water heaters are more energy efficient than older models. So whether a homeowner upgrades to a 50-gallon electric water heater or just a newer version of a previous model, they’ll get a water heater with higher heat retention, thanks to foam insulation that manufacturers place between the tank and its outer shell. Newer models, such as Rheem water heaters, are less prone to corrosion because of new glass liners. And since they are more efficient, new water heaters can also save as much as 20 percent in energy costs.
I was amazed at how much difference a new water heater made in my utility bills. After upgrading to a model with better insulation, I noticed my electric bill dropped by about $15 a month—small, but it adds up! Modern heaters also use advanced tech, like electronic ignition in gas models, which cuts down on wasted fuel. If you’re eco-conscious, look for Energy Star-rated models; they often exceed the 20% savings mentioned and might qualify for tax credits or local rebates. One thing to watch: make sure your new heater’s size matches your household’s hot water needs—too small, and you’ll run out mid-shower; too big, and you’re wasting energy heating water you don’t use.