- Plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour for hot water heater repairs and maintenance.
- Tank water heaters last 8 to 15 years. Tankless water heaters last 10 to 20 years.
- Consider replacing a water heater over 10 years old or if the repair costs are more than 50% of the replacement cost as it's more cost-effective.
What is the average cost to replace a hot water heater?
In 2020, the cost to replace a hot water heater system can vary greatly depending on your requirements. On average, it can cost anywhere between $400 and $1,000 to replace a heater with a 50-gallon tank unit. If you’re intending on going tankless, the cost could rise from anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500.
How much to replace a hot water heater?
Water heater replacement costs $600 to $1,800 for a tank or $800 to $3,500 for a tankless. A new 40- to 50-gallon hot water heater costs $330 to $2,000 for the unit alone, plus the plumber labor cost to install is $200 to $1,000. Gas water heaters cost $100 to $700 more than electric to install. Water heater installation cost - chart.
What is the most cost effective hot water heater?
Which hot water systems are most efficient?
- Solar boosted. The most efficient systems available, solar boosted systems are generally boosted by either gas or electricity, but get most of their energy from the sun.
- Natural gas/LPG. Continuous flow gas hot water systems rated at 5 stars or above are the next best option to solar. ...
- Heat pump. ...
- Electric. ...
What are the Brownsville hot water heater repair costs?
Average costs in Brownsville to repair hot water heaters in 2021 are between $119.42 and $124.10 per heater. Depending on the size of the project, you would need to multiply that number by the amount of heater needed.
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 have a water heater element replace?
Heating Element 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.
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 hot 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 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!
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.
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.
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 replace a water heater flue?
Water heater flue pipe replacement cost. Replacing a water heater flue pipe costs $100 to $350, depending on the pipe's length and configuration. The flue pipe—also known as the vent—carries gas exhaust from the water heater to the home's exterior.
How much does it cost to install a water softener?
Areas with hard water should flush tankless units more than once per year. Installing a water softener costs $800 to $2,500 and reduces mineral and sediment buildup in water heater tanks, extending its life. Failure to perform routine flushing is the #1 cause of breakdowns for tankless water heating systems.
How long does a tankless water heater last?
Tank water heaters last 8 to 15 years. Tankless water heaters last 10 to 20 years. Consider replacing a water heater over 10 years old or if the repair costs are more than 50% of the replacement cost as it's more cost-effective.
How much does it cost to replace a tankless heat exchanger?
Cost to replace a tankless heat exchanger. Tankless heat exchanger replacement costs $600 to $700 for labor alone or $1,200 to $1,300 for the part plus labor. Manufacturer warranties cover labor for 1 year and parts for 5 to 12 years, depending on the brand.
What happens if the thermostat fails on a water heater?
If the thermostat fails on a single-element water heater, the unit produces no hot water. If the upper thermostat fails on a two-element water heater, the unit produces no hot water. If the lower thermostat fails on a two-element water heater, the unit produces a limited supply of hot water.
Why does my water heater run out?
Hot water that runs out quickly indicates a defective lower heating element. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank corrodes the lower heating element. Flushing the tank every year improves the water heater's performance and extends the heating element's lifespan.
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.
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 it cost to fix a heating element?
The typical professional charge to repair your heating elements is $200 to $300. There are two of these in each unit, one at the top and one at the bottom. The top element controls the bottom element and, if it goes bad, your unit won't be able to generate hot water.
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.
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 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 ...
How much does it cost to replace a hot water tank?
A hot water tank replacement costs $600 to $1,800 on average. Storage tank water heaters are the most common and keep 30 to 80 gallons of water heated to a preset temperature. Most systems take 40 minutes to 2 hours to reheat a full tank.
How much does it cost to install a gas water heater?
Gas water heater installation costs $600 to $2,800 total for a standard tank or $700 to $4,600 for a tankless. Gas water heaters cost $100 to $700 more than electric up front, but cost $220 less per year to operate.
How long is a water heater warranty?
Most tank water heater warranties last 6 to 12 years, depending on the brand. Tankless water heater warranties last 5 to 15 years. Extended warranties cost $40 for 2 years or $70 for 5 years and must be purchased with the water heater at the time of installation. Water heater warranty length.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
Installing a tank water heater takes 2 to 6 hours, depending on accessibility. Tankless water heater installation takes 3 to 10 hours for a new install or 2 to 4 hours to replace an existing tankless unit. Replacing a water heater in an attic, closet, or other tight space increases the labor time.
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater at Home Depot?
Home Depot charges $750 to $2,000 to install tank water heaters and $1,200 to $5,000 to install tankless water heaters. This cost includes the water heater, labor by a licensed plumber, permits, and old water heater removal.
How much does a solar water heater cost?
A solar water heater costs $3,000 to $9,000 installed or $1,500 to $6,600 after applying tax credits and rebates. Solar thermal systems use the sun for water heating, reducing energy costs by 50% to 80%. Solar water heaters can operate as hybrid water heating systems, working with electric or gas heaters.
How much does a high efficiency water heater cost?
High-efficiency water heaters cost $1,200 to $4,400 on average for the unit and installation. High-efficiency systems use less fuel to operate, create hot water quickly, and minimize heat loss, making them up to 300% more energy-efficient than standard tank water heaters.
How much does it cost to repair a heating element?
Therefore, if the element is corroded or stops functioning, you don’t get hot water. Professional repairs for a heating element can cost up to $300.
How much does it cost to fix a thermostat?
The individual part typically costs about $20, but it’s recommended that you get professional repairs, which could amount up to $200.
What is tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters are a relatively new technology that helps save you on water heating costs. Since they function quite differently from conventional water heaters, they will have their own unique issues.
How much does it cost to repair a thermocouple?
The thermocouple is an apparatus that senses whether the pilot light is lit and triggers the gas control valve. Repairs typically cost about $150 to have it done professionally, though a new thermocouple itself only costs about $20 on average.
How much does a plumber charge per hour?
Most plumbers and technicians will charge an hourly rate for their services, and these tend to range from $50 to $150 per hour. Also, if your system is still under warranty, then your costs will likely be far lower for hot water heater repairs than if it’s an older unit. Learn More About Our HVAC Services.
How much does a dip tube cost?
Dip Tube – $10 to $150. The dip tube carries cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. If the dip tube is corroded, blocked, or leaking, water heating won’t occur as efficiently. On average, a new dip tube costs about $10, and it can run up to $150 to have it repaired professionally.
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.