How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Hot Water Heater by Type?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

The cost of a hot water heater depends on its type, fuel source, size, and energy efficiency. Below is a breakdown of costs for various types of water heaters, including installation estimates.

Water Heater Installation Costs

Installing a water heater is an essential home improvement for hot water needs. Whether replacing a traditional tank or upgrading to a tankless system, here's a breakdown of costs.

Water Heater Replacement Costs

Unit Cost: $300 – $2,000
Labor Costs: $45 – $150 per hour
Installation Visit Time: 2–3 hours for straightforward installations.

| Type of Water Heater | Cost With Installation | |---------------------------|----------------------------------| | Tank (40–50 gallons) | $900 | | Tankless | $3,000 |

Additional Costs for Water Heater Installation

Potential Extra Services

Depending on your home's needs and any code updates, these additional costs might apply:

| Service | Cost Range | |----------------------------|---------------------------------| | Electrician | $50 – $100 per hour | | Additional Wiring | $550 – $2,200 | | New Gas Line | $250 – $800 | | New Water Line | $350 – $1,900 | | Required Permits | $100 – $1,500 | | Wall Framing | $200 – $400 | | Drywall Installation | $1,000 – $2,900 | | Water Heater Removal | $100 – $500 |

Factors Impacting Installation Costs

Conversion Between Gas and Electric
Additional work, like gas line or wiring upgrades, increases costs.
Location Change
Moving the water heater may require new framing, plumbing, or drywall work.
Permit Requirements
Permit costs vary by location and ensure compliance with safety codes.
Code Updates
Updates may necessitate changes in plumbing, electrical, or venting systems.

Water Heater Costs by Type

| Type | Cost Range | Details | |-----------------------|--------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Indirect | $800 – $1,500 | Efficient; uses external boiler or heat source. | | Gas | $250 – $1,800 | Faster heating but less efficient than electric. | | Electric | $200 – $2,880 | Easy to install, ideal for smaller spaces. | | High-Efficiency | $1,000 – $3,000 | Saves energy; insulated tanks and advanced features. | | Tankless | $1,000 – $3,000 | On-demand hot water; energy-efficient but higher upfront costs. | | Hybrid Heat Pump | $1,200 – $3,500 | Highly efficient but requires ample space. | | Solar | $1,800 – $13,000 | Environmentally friendly; high initial cost but long-term savings. |

Comparing Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters

| Factor | Gas | Electric |
|-----------------------|------------------------|--------------------------|
| Unit Cost | $250 – $1,800 | $200 – $2,880 |
| Lifespan Cost (12 yrs) | $5,000 | $6,250 |
| Efficiency | Less efficient | More efficient |
| Best For | Large families, homes with gas lines. | Apartments, small spaces. |

Specialized Water Heater Costs

1. High-Efficiency Water Heaters

Cost: $1,000 – $3,000.
Advantages: Insulated tanks, smart leak detection, and up to 300% efficiency.

2. Tankless Water Heaters

Cost: $1,000 – $3,000.
Perks: Provides on-demand hot water, saves space, and lasts up to 20 years.
Tip: Requires regular maintenance (e.g., descaling heat exchangers).

3. Solar Water Heaters

Cost: $1,800 – $13,000.
Features: Uses renewable energy, lowers long-term energy bills.

4. Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heaters

Cost: $1,200 – $3,500.
Advantages: Most energy-efficient but requires significant space (7 ft clearance, 1,000 cubic feet of air).

5. Indirect Water Heaters

Cost: $800 – $1,500.
Details: Uses an external boiler or heat source to heat water indirectly.

Water Heater Sizes and Usage

| Household Size | Tank Size Needed | Peak Usage |
|----------------------|--------------------------|---------------------------|
| 1 person | 20–30 gallons | 20–30 gallons (2–3 min) |
| 2–3 people | 30–40 gallons | 30–40 gallons (3–5 min) |
| 4–5 people | 40–50 gallons | 40–50 gallons (4–6 min) |
| 6+ people | 55+ gallons | 55+ gallons (5+ min) |

Cost Factors to Consider

1. Installation Location

Moving a unit may require additional plumbing, venting, or carpentry, increasing costs.

2. Maintenance Costs

Anode Rod Replacement: Extends tank lifespan; costs ~$30 every 3–5 years.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient models cost more upfront but save on long-term energy bills.

4. Size and First-Hour Rating (FHR)

FHR measures peak hot water demand, influencing the heater size needed.

Costs Near You

| City/State | Cost Range |
|----------------------|--------------------|
| Atlanta | $775 – $1,350 |
| Los Angeles | $950 – $1,750 |
| Boston | $992 – $1,841 |
| Houston | $950 – $1,600 |
| Seattle | $1,050 – $1,700 |

FAQs About Hot Water Heaters

1. What are signs my water heater needs replacing?

Metallic taste in water.
Rusty or discolored water.
Noisy operation (popping/cracking sounds).
Leaks or insufficient heating.

2. How can I extend my water heater’s life?

Replace the anode rod every 3–5 years.
Schedule regular maintenance for tankless models.

3. Should I install it myself or hire a pro?

Hire a licensed plumber for proper installation, especially for gas or tankless systems.

Upgrading your water heater is an investment in comfort and efficiency.