Water heater repair costs
| Service | Average cost to repair |
| Anode rod replacement | $150 – $350 |
| Blown fuse / tripped breaker | $10 – $20 |
| Circulator pump replacement | $150 – $680 |
| Dip tube replacement | $100 – $300 |
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? ...
Is it better to fix or replace 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 a heating element in water heater?
Heater Element Replacement Cost Professionals charge $200 to $300 to repair heating elements. Every unit will have a heating element at the top and bottom of the unit. The top element controls the bottom element, which means you won't be able to generate hot water if it goes bad.
How much does it cost to relight a water heater?
Most service providers will charge a standard fee per visit that typically covers the cost to relight a gas water heater. This service call price can range from $80 to $100.
What are the signs of a failing water heater?
Warning Signs of Water Heater FailureAging. Unfortunately, household appliances are built to last forever. ... Leaking. Every homeowner fears water damage, for good reason. ... Delivering Rusty or Cloudy Water. ... Hot Water Shortage. ... Varying Water Temperature. ... Making Strange Noises. ... Requiring Expensive Repairs.
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 yearsTypically a residential hot water heater lasts between 6 and 13 years. Beyond 12 years, you are on borrowed time!
What happens if water heater pilot light goes out?
If the pilot isn't lit anymore, then the heater won't be able to keep the water warm, and you may experience cold water when you take a shower or try to get hot water from the tap. Usually, cold water is a sign that the pilot has gone out, and many will go to check the heater to see if the pilot is no longer lit.
What do you do when your water heater goes out?
Immediate Things to Do When Your Water Heater Breaks!Stop the Water. Locate the cold water supply pipe. ... Shut Off the Power. The electric or gas heating element can pose a new hazard to your home if it continues to run. ... Cleanup. ... Make an Insurance Claim.
What do you do if your water heater pilot light won't light?
When the water heater pilot light goes out, first try relighting it, following the directions on the water heater label. If the pilot doesn't relight, if it goes out right after lighting or if it goes out repeatedly, by far the most common cause is a bad thermocouple.
What is the most common problem with water heaters?
Water leaks are perhaps the most common type of water heater issue you'll face. Any water heater will start to leak eventually, as by nature water will eventually corrode your tank and create microscopic cracks or fractures.
Can a water heater explode?
While rare, residential water heater explosions do occur and can be deadly. Explosions are possible with both gas and electric tank water heaters, primarily those that are poorly maintained.
What causes a heating element to burn out in a water heater?
Sediment Buildup Minerals in hard water (such as calcium and magnesium) can lead to buildup in your water heater. In some cases, mineral sediment collects at the bottom of the tank, preventing heat transfer to the water. The affected heating elements get forced to work harder and eventually burn out.
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.
What is the cost of a heating element?
Typically, the general cost of a heating element is around $35 to $60, but depending on the factors previously mentioned, it can still cost even up to $200. It's worth noting that this is the cost for the standalone part itself, not any labor or service fees charged by professionals.
How do you change a heating element in a hot water heater?
0:452:06How to Replace an Electric Water Heater Heating Element - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPull the heating element out of the tank. Insert. The new heating element in the tank. And tightenMorePull the heating element out of the tank. Insert. The new heating element in the tank. And tighten it firmly reconnect the wires to the new heating element and tighten the screws reinstall.
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 to do if your pilot light goes bad?
If you have a faulty thermocouple, it will be impossible to reignite the pilot light. If your thermocouple goes bad, there is only one thing to do: Replace it . If you hire a professional plumber to do this, it may cost up to $200 total. This is another repair you may wish to attempt on your own.
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 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.
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!
What does rusty water mean?
Rustic water- Rusty water coming from the water heater could mean that the water heater is rusting on the inside. It is a problem that needs to be addressed before the unit starts leaking. Leaking water- Water around a water heater shows a leak in the tank itself and really should be looked at by a professional.
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 ...
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 ...
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 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.
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.
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.
Water Heater Costs
On average, the cost to replace a water heater is $1,200, including the price of the new unit and labor. At the low end, bargain hunters can get it done for as little as $815. High-end systems can cost up to $10,000 or more, depending on the water heater type, location of the installation and other variables that we’ll explore just ahead.
Hot Water Heater Installation Prices
Replacing a water heater involves a range of variables that affect the final project cost, beginning with the size and type of unit.
Labor Cost to Install a Hot Water Heater
In addition to the price of the unit, a major portion of the installation cost is the labor charge. Labor costs could be as low as $150 or up to $1,000 or more. They vary based on the installer’s hourly rate, the size and type of water heater and the location of the installation.
Additional Water Heater Replacement Cost Factors
Beyond the price of the appliance and the installer’s labor, other costs may be involved in replacing a water heater. These could include permit fees, installation of an expansion tank, removal and disposal of the old water heater, installation of water or gas lines, electrical or carpentry work and materials costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Traditional tank-style water heaters have a lifespan of eight to 13 years. Tankless water heaters last 20 years or more.
How much does an aquastat cost?
The thermostat which controls the temperature in these systems is also known as an Aquastat ($70-$150). These are very easy to access and replace. Just make sure to turn the breaker off before you begin. Low water level: One of the top issues with boiler systems is that the water level in the expansion tank is low.
What to do if your pilot light goes bad?
If your pilot light and thermocouple are in good shape, it may be that you need a new gas control valve. When this part has gone bad, replacing it is usually a more efficient and cost-effective option than repair. The control valve is responsible for releasing gas and turning it off when the pilot light is out. A bad valve can render your entire unit unsafe. A professional will diagnose this problem if your burner or pilot light won't light or stay lit, and after issues with the thermocouple and pilot light themselves have been ruled out.
How much does it cost to install a thermocouple?
Calling a professional plumber to install a new thermocouple should only be up to $150. If you do the work yourself, you will only pay the price of the part which is about $20.
How much does it cost to fix a water heater?
The national average cost to repair a water heater is $588. The typical range for repairs is $221 and $958, though homeowners have spent as little as $100 and as much as $1,300.
How much does a plumber charge for gas?
Plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour and the most common issues with gas units cost between $150 and $500 to fix. Some of these repairs can be done without a professional, but only if you follow instructions and secure your gas line.
How does a high efficiency water heater work?
Today's high-efficiency heaters can warm your water better and faster and save money on your energy bills. Manufacturers now inject foam insulation between the tank and its outer shell, resulting in higher heat retention.
How does a tank water heater work?
Conventional, tank-type water heaters are relatively simple and straightforward in the way that they operate, so there are only a few things that can malfunction. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by an electric element or gas burner. As the water heats, pressure builds inside the tank. When you turn on a tap, pressure sends hot water out ...
