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how much does it cost to repair a water heater

by Joan Hills Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Here are average costs to repair or replace a few common water heater problems:

  • Clean and repair thermocouple: $395
  • Replace thermostat and/or heating element: $150–$200
  • Leaks: Generally not affordable to repair, unless the unit is still under warranty

Professional repairs are typically required, and those often run somewhere between $150 to over $800, though the average tends to hover around $600. Tankless water heaters require periodic flushing to keep mineral and sediment from building up inside the unit.Aug 25, 2020

Full Answer

How much does it cost of replacing a water heater?

  • Cost of labor. The pricing of water heater repairs can be variable. One of the big factors is cost of labor. ...
  • Make and model. The make and model of your unit also come under consideration. Some units are simply more expensive. ...
  • Quality of work. It’s good to look for an affordable plumber. Find someone who will give you a bargain. ...

How to figure the cost of replacing a water heater?

  • The type of fuel the water heater utilizes.
  • Its estimated annual operating expense.
  • The estimated quantity of energy utilized annual (BTUs or watts).
  • If the water heating unit satisfies Energy Star requirements for water heating systems), an Energy Star emblem (.
  • Tank size (in gallons).
  • First-hour rating (see listed below).

Should I replace or repair my water heater?

  • Building Intelligence Center
  • International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)
  • AO Smith
  • Bradford White
  • Rheem

Should you repair or replace the water heater?

  • How will you dispose of your old water heater? Check local codes governing disposal of such appliances.
  • Will you be able to physically handle the unit? Water heaters are bulky and heavy. ...
  • Do you have the tools necessary to do the job? ...
  • Do you have time to do the job? ...

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Is it worth it to repair a hot water heater?

The 50% rule states that if any repair costs 50% of what it would cost to replace, then you should replace it, rather than repair it. However, even if your current repair does not add up to 50% of a new water heater you to want keep in mind the frequency of repairs and your water heater's age.

How much does it cost to replace water heater burner?

Hot water heater repair costs $150 to $700 on average for a tank. Tankless water heater maintenance costs $75 to $300, and tankless repairs cost $300 to $1,300....Hot water heater repair cost.ServiceAverage cost to repairNew tank water heater replacement$600 – $1,800New tankless water heater replacement$800 – $3,50019 more rows•Jun 15, 2021

How much does it cost to repair a leaking water heater?

Repair costs for a hot water tank usually average between $150 and $700, depending on the repair....Hot Water Tank Repair Costs.Type of RepairCostLeakingUp to $1,000Flush or clean tank$75 – $2501 more row

How much does it cost to replace a pilot assembly on a water heater?

Water Heater Repair Cost by Type of ReplacementType of ReplacementAverage Costs (Labor Included)Pilot Light$75 - $150Thermostat$100 - $250Dip Tube$100 - $250Valve$100 - $3007 more rows•May 31, 2021

What is the life expectancy of a water heater?

While the typical water heater has a lifespan of about 10 years, careful consideration of the factors that pertain to its lifespan can provide the InterNACHI home inspector and the homeowner with information about the potential costs that would be incurred by replacing the water heater.

How long should a water heater last?

between 6 and 13 yearsIt would be nice to know when the time is right to replace your water before it springs a leak and causes an inconvenience or worse yet, damage to your home. Typically a residential hot water heater lasts between 6 and 13 years. Beyond 12 years, you are on borrowed time!

Can a hot water heater leak be repaired?

Tank. Once the tank itself starts to leak water, and you are certain there is no other cause for the leakage, it's time to replace the water heater. The inside of the tank eventually corrodes from mineral deposits and from the constant strain of heating and cooling. There is no way to repair a leaking tank.

What happen when your water heater is leaking?

Even a small amount of water leaking from your water heater can cause damage to your floors, sub-floors and walls. A significant flood could lead to hefty repair bills and damage to personal property. Water heater leaks can also be a health concern and lead to mold and mildew.

How much does a 40 gal water heater cost?

The national average cost range to install a 40-gallon tank water heater is $850 to $2,600, with most people paying around $1,400 for a 40-gallon gas tank water heater that is a direct replacement for an existing model.

How often should a hot water heater be replaced?

between eight and ten yearsHow Long Do Water Heaters Last. — The majority of water heaters last between eight and ten years. While ten is the age at which heater replacement is generally recommended, the actual need to replace a heater could arise before or after this timeline.

Should I replace my 15 year old water heater?

Anyway, you should consider replacing your water heater if it's about 6-12+ years old and when you start running out of hot water faster. However, age and lack of hot water aren't everything. You could have a 15-year-old water heater that works just fine and wouldn't need replacing.

How much does it cost to fix an electric water heater?

If you have a problem with your element, it will probably cost between $200 and $300 to fix it. Most electric water heaters come with two heating elements. One is at the bottom of the tank. The other is positioned at the top of the tank. An electrical current run through each element.

How much does it cost to replace a dip tube on a heater?

A faulty dip tube may cause your heater to stop working. Replacing one yourself may cost as little as $10. If you have it done by a professional plumbing company, you can expect to pay around $150.

Why is my water heater not getting hot enough?

One possible reason is that the unit is undersized. Hot water heaters come with different tank sizes to accommodate different sizes of house/family. If you consistently have too little hot water, it may be because your heater is just too small. Replacing it with a larger unit may be the best way forward.

What to do if your water heater is not working?

If your gas heater is not working, you may want to hire a professional plumber. Your plumber will be able to accurately diagnose the underlying issue.

How long does a water heater last?

A good rule of thumb is that water heater’s life expectancy is 9 years. Without draining, water heaters that receive heavy use may not last quite as long. But 9 years is a good number to keep in mind.

What happens if your water heater goes out?

The bottom line: Homeowners depend on functional water heater units. If your water heater goes out, it diminishes your quality of life considerably. Prompt water heater replacement or repair is a must.

Why does my heater fail?

Sometimes, heaters fail due to mechanical issues. But sometimes, it’s simple wear and tear. Over time, units become corroded. If your unit is visibly corroded, it may be too late to save it. You may need to go ahead and spring for a replacement.

How Much Does a Hot Water Heater Repair Cost Near You?

Different areas of the U.S. have varying prices. Based on where you live, your hot water heater service cost could be higher or lower.

How Much Does Hot Water Heater Repair Cost by Type?

Water heater repair prices range from simple DIY fixes under $20 to more complex problems that can cost hundreds. The following issues occur in both electric and gas heaters.

Water Heater Leak Repair Cost

Leaks aren’t something you should ignore or try to handle on your own. You’re going to want a local plumber to take a look. It could only call for the simple tightening and cleaning of a leaking valve, or the outlook might be grimmer.

Cleaning and Flushing the Tank

What’s that noise? If you’re hearing something rattling around in the tank, that’s probably sediment. It’s not just annoying: if left alone, it might lead to leaks, heating element failure, or the death of the entire unit ( oh no! ). It’s a good idea to have a plumber flush it ASAP for around $200.

How Much Does Hot Water Heater Repair Cost by Style?

Lukewarm water coming out of your shower could point to several issues, such as a thermocouple problem in a gas heater, or a heater element failure in an electric heater. Because these all require different parts and expertise to fix, costs vary based on the style you have. The two main categories are gas and electric water heaters.

Gas Water Heater Repair Costs

Gas water heater repair costs usually come from pilot light problems, thermostat issues, or a failed thermocouple. Each displays different symptoms with varying water heater repair prices that go with it.

Pilot Light

Your pilot light going out is the most manageable issue to diagnose because, well, the light isn’t lit. Finding the source of the problem might be just as easy as discovering it, or it could point to a bigger issue.

Need immediate help?

Want to skip straight to having a professional diagnose and repair your water heater? We’d be happy to help.

Need a quality water heater repair? Hire Michael & Son

Our NATE-certified plumbers can usually repair your water heater the very same day you call us. If you’re having issues with your water heater and aren’t sure who to call, reach out to us!

Signs you need a new water heater

Most water heaters will last between 8 and 12 years, though newer tankless systems can last over 20 years. They can gradually lose performance or suddenly stop working and need immediate replacement. However, there are a few key symptoms to watch out for ahead of time that indicate your current water heater is on its last leg.

How much does it cost to replace a water heater?

Water heaters are less expensive to replace than some other systems, like HVAC systems, but still represent the second-highest source of energy use in the home. You should expect to spend at least $1,000 for a basic water heater, while opting for a tankless system costs up to $3,000.

Factors involved in water heater replacement costs

When budgeting to replace your water heater, keep the following factors in mind:

Types of water heaters

The two main types of water heaters are tank and tankless, and they both can run on electric power, gas, oil or propane. Tank-based water heaters can also run on solar power.

How much does a water heater installation cost?

Installation costs alone for a water heater range from $150 to $800. The best way to determine installation costs is to have a licensed plumber come to your house to evaluate your space and options.

Bottom line

When your water heater goes out, you’ll likely be in a hurry to get it repaired or replaced so your family can carry on with daily tasks like bathing, cooking, cleaning dishes and washing clothing.

How much does it cost to fix a water heater?

According to a study carried out by HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost to repair a water heater is $501, with most homeowners spending between $203 and $800 for just one repair.

How long does a water heater last?

Based on the level of minerals in your water and how much water you use, the typical water heater will typically last between 10 and 20 years. Modern units are much more energy-efficient, so consider the money you will save on utility costs when deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater. Professional water heater repair is always less ...

How do I light a water heater?

First, turn the gas control knob on the water heater to "pilot, " then remove the metal plate and look to see if the pilot is lit. If the water heater is not lit, you can light it if you are familiar with the process or contact the gas company or a plumbing professional for help with igniting it. If the pilot is indeed off, turn off ...

What to do if water is on the floor?

If there’s water on the floor, don’t touch it or step in it. Switch off all breakers to your home and call an emergency service plumbing company in your area .

How much does it cost to replace a boiler ignitor?

Listed below are the costs of common boiler repairs: $175–$485 to replace a broken ignitor. The boiler ignitor creates the initial spark/heat that ignites the fuel (oil, gas or propane). When ignited, the fuel burns up to generate heat. Therefore, if your ignitor is bad, you will not have any heat.

Why does my water heater make a noise?

Noise- If you hear noises when your water heater is attempting to heat water, it may be due to the build-up of sediment.

How much does a circulator pump cost?

If your circulator is not working, your system will not heat your house. $55-$350 to fix pipe leakages.

Who Is Doing the Repair?

The cost of labor plays a significant role in how much you will spend on water heater repairs. With the popularity of home improvement shows at an all-time high, many homeowners think they are plumbing experts. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

How Old Is the Water Heater?

Do you know the age of your current water heater? You need to find out this magic number before you call a plumber. If you don’t know it, a plumber can look it up based on the manufacturer and serial number. Why is age so important? It’s usually a better investment to replace a geriatric unit than to repair it.

Ready to Upgrade Your Water Heater?

If you decide that replacing your water heater is the best bet, you have a few options. Of course, you can always get a similar unit. After all, it provided you with several years of reliable hot water. But, you may need something entirely different.

Locate a Water Heater Expert

There’s no reason to suffer through another frigid shower when the experts at Anthony Wimpey Plumbing are just a phone call away. We take pride in providing our customers with fast and dependable service. There’s no plumbing situation we can’t handle—if water flows through it, we can fix it!

About Us

Our team of plumbers has building a reputation for friendly, honest service as a long-standing plumbing establishment. Anthony Wimpey served Social Circle, Lawrenceville, Decatur with the expert knowledge and great service you'd expect from a master plumber.

How much does it cost to fix a gas water heater?

Homeowners can expect to pay between $150 and $750 for gas water heater repairs. Gas water heaters function mostly the same way as electric heaters. However, they have a few different components where issues might arise, such as the burner, gas control valves, the anode rod, or even the tank.

How much does it cost to replace a water heater thermostat?

Getting a replacement thermostat fitted in your water heater should cost between $100 and $250. Thermostats break down for various reasons, including technical defects, old age, and improper installation. Replacement thermostats are inexpensive and easy to install. The whole process can usually be completed in under an hour.

How long is a water heater warranty?

Warranty. Most water heater brands come with a warranty lasting between 6 and 12 years. The warranty usually covers both the tank and any replacement parts that might be required. Most manufacturers also offer a one- or two-year labor warranty. Check your heater's warranty policy if any issues occur because you might be able to claim on the warranty and pay less for repairs.

Why is a water heater important?

A water heater is essential for any home, helping to heat the water you use for baths, showers, cooking, and cleaning too. Countless people rely on their water heaters every day. These devices play vital roles in allowing families to live safe and comfortable lives.

What is a heat pump?

2 Heat pumps: A device used to heat or cool the air in a home by moving hot and cold air to where it is needed. The unit pulls hot air from inside the home in the summer and directs it outdoors, leaving the inside air cool, and pulls heat from outdoors in the winter and directs it into the home, thereby warming it

Can a water heater be replaced?

In some cases, the damaged or broken parts of your water heater may be beyond repair, so they will have to be replaced with new ones. The cost of getting replacement parts varies depending on the part and the amount of work required to install it. The table below shows some common water heater parts, which might need replacing, along with average costs for each.

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