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 heating element in water heater?
Water heater service costs $100 to $350 to replace the heating element, thermocouple, igniter, anode rod, dip tube, or thermostat. Water heater gas valve replacement costs $150 to $550. Water heater flushing costs $75 to $250.
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 is the life expectancy of a water heater?
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.
What happens when a water heater goes bad?
Know the Signs Your Water Heater May Die Your hot water has a metallic taste. The water heater makes cracking and popping sound. There's rust on the outside bottom of your water heater. The water tank is leaking.
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.
What happens if the pilot light goes out on a water heater?
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.
How do I know if the pilot light is out on my water heater?
No flame where there should be a flame? These are signs the pilot light on your water heater is out. Fortunately, it's a really easy fix....Signs your pilot light is outYour Water is Cold.Blinking Light or Error Message.You Can't See the Flame.
How do you know if your water heater is out?
Signs Your Hot Water Heater Is Going to FailWater leaking from the heating tank. ... Age of the water heater. ... Running out of hot water quickly. ... Inconsistent water temperature in the shower. ... Discolored water coming from faucets. ... Unusual noises coming from the water heater. ... Lower water pressure.
Can I take a shower if my water heater is leaking?
In most cases, you can take a shower when your water heater is leaking, but it depends on the size of the leak. Typical water heater leaks at the drain valve, T&P valve, or deliver pipes usually only let a small amount of water out. If the leak is minor, it's safe to take a shower before fixing it.
When should a water heater be replaced?
Water Heater Lifespan If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.
How often should you flush your water heater?
It is recommended that you flush your water heater at least once per year. Doing so will help to prevent the potential problems that sediment can bring over time.
How do I know if my water heater element is bad?
Touch a probe on the multitester to each screw on the element. If you get no reading, or a maximum reading, the element is bad. Elements do have some resistance, so a reading of 10-16 ohms is normal, with higher ohm readings for 3,500 watt elements and lower readings for 5,500 watt elements.
Can you change a water heater element without draining the tank?
It is possible to change your water heater's heating element without draining your tank.
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 many heating elements are in a hot water heater?
two elementsHeating Elements Your water heater will come with two elements — one located up high, and another down toward the bottom of your water heater. The system runs an electric current through each element, causing them to heat and raise the tank's water temperature.
How Much Should You Spend to Repair a Water Heater?
So far, we’ve been discussing problems common to water heaters. The first step toward addressing your issue is to figure out what’s causing it. A Carter professional plumber can assist you with this.
How much does it cost to replace a thermostat?
You may also run into problems with the thermostat on your unit. The cost to repair or replace one is usually $150 to $200.
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.
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.
What happens if a tank valve breaks?
This valve does exactly what its name suggests. It releases excessive pressure from your tank. If the valve breaks, the tank may begin to leak.
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!
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 replace a water heater?
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.
How much does a home warranty cost for a water heater?
If your water heater breaks and is covered, your warranty provider sends a licensed repair company to assess any system failure. You pay a service call fee (between $60 and $125), and any repair or replacement is done at no further cost to you. A home warranty usually costs from $300 to $600 per year.
How long does a water heater last?
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. Most of these issues will require a licensed plumbing company to inspect your unit and offer a quote for repair or replacement — though some you may be able to fix yourself.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Tankless units cost between $250 and $2,500, with installation costs between $400 and $1,500. There are also high-efficiency and solar options that run significantly more — upward of $3,000.
Why is my water heater not getting hot enough?
Water not getting hot enough: If your water isn’t getting hot enough (or not getting hot at all), you should first check that the pilot light is still lit or that you haven’t tripped a breaker. If you’ve ruled these possibilities out, you should have the heater inspected by a professional, as there’s likely an issue with the internal heating mechanism.
How much does gas cost compared to electric?
Gas vs. electric: While a gas system will cost $100 to $200 more than an electric model upfront, most people end up saving more over the life of the unit on their utility bills because natural gas costs less than electricity, on average.
What does it mean when your heating element is cracking?
Pops and cracking sounds: This is usually an indication that the heating element isn’t working properly and should be inspected and potentially replaced by a licensed technician.
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 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.
What to do if your water heater is not 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 the gas valve immediately and ventilate the area to prevent gas build-up.
What to do if water is leaking from a power panel?
If there’s no sign of leaking, check the power circuit breakers or fuse box. If those are intact, the next stop is the control panel. If water is present inside the panel, leave it open and call for repair as-soon-as-possible.
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 .
What does rusty water mean in a water heater?
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.
Why add a water softener to a water heater?
In locations where water has a high mineral content, otherwise known as hard water, add a water softener to reduce the unwanted effects that those mineral deposits can have on the water heater tank.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Water Heater Yourself?
If you’re a dedicated DIY-er who is willing to do the research, you can save big on your hot water heater service cost. Be sure to observe all appropriate safety measures because hot water is really hot, and gas/electricity is nothing to mess around with either.
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.
What Factors Influence Hot Water Heater Repair Cost?
Your cost to repair a water heater depends on the type of heater you have, as well as the price of any replacement parts. The hot water heater service cost also plays a big role. Can you safely (and effectively) undertake the repair on your own, or will you have a pro come out? All of these factors come into play when determining water heater repair prices.
How can I maximize the lifespan of my water heater?
It’s important to learn how to inspect and maintain your water heater on a regular basis. Going back to the tank flushing mentioned earlier, do that every year to keep any nasty sediment from building up and wreaking havoc on your water heater. This might cost up to $200 when done by a professional plumber.
What are the major signs that a water heater is about to go bad?
If you’re concerned about your water heater, there are four major signs that it’s about to fail.
How much does it cost to install a 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.
How much does a plumber charge for a water heater?
Plumbers can perform most of the work of installing gas or electric water heaters. Their labor rates range between $45 and $150 per hour. If the job includes major electrical work, such as adding a new circuit or converting from gas to electric, you’ll also need to hire an electrician at $50 to $100 per hour.
How many gallons of water does a tankless water heater hold?
The size of the water heater also plays into the cost. Tank-style heaters range in size from 20 to more than 80 gallons of storage, with most homes using either a 40 or 50-gallon size. Tankless water heater size is measured in a flow rating of between two- and six gallons-per-minute (gpm). A higher flow rate of four- to six-gpm is recommended for most homes.
How long does it take to replace a tankless water heater?
Tank type water heaters, both gas and electric, typically take three hours to replace. Installing a tankless water heater requires eight to 10 hours. If you are converting from gas to electric, or vice versa, or if you are moving the water heater to a new location in the house, these can add significantly to the length of the job and may even require additional types of labor, such as carpenters or drywall installers.
How much does a tank water heater cost?
This style represents more than 85 percent of all household water heaters in the United States. Tank-style hot water heater installations average between $ 650 and $2,100, including the new water heater, materials and labor. They run on electricity, gas, propane or fuel oil, and last 10 to 12 years.
How efficient are tankless water heaters?
In the past few decades, tankless water heaters have proven to be highly efficient. They provide an unlimited supply of hot water on demand by heating it as it flows through the waterline, rather than storing hot water and burning energy to keep it hot. Tankless water heaters run between $1,000 and $3,500 installed. They can be powered by gas, or electricity and often last longer than 20 years.
What happens if water pressure is too high?
Excessive water pressure can damage the water heater along with other water system components. If the water coming into the house is greater than 80 psi, adjust or replace the pressure relief valve.
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 remove a thermostat?
Hiring a professional to remove a thermostat and install a new one averages $150 to $200. On their own, the parts cost up to $20. Each heating element is connected to its own thermostat. If you or your plumber find that the elements are in working condition, your problem is likely one or two malfunctioning thermostats. These can be replaced easily and without removing the elements themselves.
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 ...
What is the pressure needed to fill an expansion tank?
The proper fill is halfway with a pressure of 12-15 psi. Homeowners can fill the expansion tank themselves.
