Water heater installation costs depend heavily on the type and capacity of the device purchased; electric devices tend to be cheaper, while gas units can incur additional expenses. Furthermore, you may require new gas lines, adding further costs to the project.
Location can play an integral part in driving up water heater installation costs; if it’s located in an inaccessible space, professional installers may charge extra for labor costs.
If you need to replace your current water heater, you should consider teaming up with a plumbing company with experienced technicians and a proven track record, like Clover Services.
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Cost of the Heater
The cost of water heaters will depend on their size and type, fuel source, and tank size.
An electric tank water heater generally costs less to purchase and install than its gas counterpart; however, its ongoing operating expenses may be more costly due to higher electricity costs. Tank size also plays a factor; 40-gallon tanks cost roughly $500, while larger models of 75 gallons could run you around $1600.
Gas tank water heaters typically cost more than their electric counterparts, yet can often prove less expensive to operate due to natural gas being cheaper in many US cities than electricity.
A hybrid heat pump tankless water heater may cost more than its traditional electric model but uses refrigeration technology to save energy, potentially cutting your energy costs over time. A plumber typically charges between $50 and $200 an hour to install one of these new heaters.
Cost of the Installation
Installing a water heater can vary significantly in cost depending on its size, fuel source and installation method. Electric models tend to be the least costly option while gas heaters cost slightly more. Installation type also plays a factor; switching from one type of heater to another or moving it can increase costs due to adjustments required to existing plumbing and electrical systems in your home.
Hiring a professional installer of water heaters is often the best solution, mainly if the unit is heavy and requires assistance in its movement or installation requires a permit, making labor costs typically an hourly rate plus any necessary parts or accessories for the job. Installation time may also increase, but over time could save energy and money.
Cost of Permits
Depending on the type of water heater being installed, local permitting fees and costs could significantly increase its installation price. For instance, installing a gas or propane water heater typically requires venting that adds between $300-$600 to its total installation cost.
If a plumber needs to relocate the location of a water heater or switch fuel sources, this can also cost. Water line installation fees typically range from $350 to $1,900, while electrical wiring fees tend to cost between $50 and $100 an hour on average.
Another element that affects water heater installation prices is choosing between tank or tankless models. Tank-style heaters cost $650 to $2,500 and typically last 8-12 years, while tankless water heaters usually cost about $1,200-3,500 with lifespans lasting 20+ years.
Cost of Fuel
Water heaters are one of the largest sources of energy consumption in homes, so it is vital that homeowners opt for high-efficiency models. Newer ones use less fuel and operate at lower temperatures – saving both money and resources over time.
The price depends on size and configuration (tank or tankless). It also depends on whether it uses propane or natural gas; on average, a storage tank usually costs approximately $500.
Gas tanks tend to be more costly upfront but less expensive to run over time. You will also need to decide whether you wish to power vent or direct vent your unit; power venting uses fans to push exhaust air out of your home, while direct venting brings combustion air from outside and requires a duct for outdoor venting – adding around $1,000 in total costs.
