Water Heater Replacement and Installation
Quick answer
A like-for-like tank swap is the simplest job; changing fuel, size or moving to tankless adds gas line, venting or electrical work. Installed, a 40–50 gallon gas tank typically runs $900–$1,800, electric $800–$1,600 and gas tankless $2,000–$4,500, per our water heater replacement cost guide. For a plumber's quote, call (888) 217-6781.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Signs you need a plumber
- Water coming from the tank body or the bottom seam
- A tank more than about 10 years old that needs a major repair
- Rusty hot water that a flush does not clear
- Not enough hot water for the household any more
- Rising energy bills on an older tank
A tank leaking from its body cannot be repaired. Close the cold supply valve, turn off the power or set the gas to off, and drain it if water is reaching the floor.
What to check before you call
- Read the label: gallons, gas or electric, and the manufacture date (often coded in the serial number)
- Note the venting: a metal flue to a chimney, or a PVC pipe out of a wall
- Measure the space if you are thinking of a larger tank
- Ask whether your area requires a permit and an expansion tank
What the plumber does
- 1
Sizes the unit
Matches capacity or flow rate to the household and the fuel, venting and space available.
- 2
Removes the old heater
Drains and disconnects it, and hauls it away if that is in the quote.
- 3
Installs to code
Connects water, gas or power and venting, fits the relief valve discharge and any expansion tank, and pulls the permit where required.
Water heater installation cost
| Job | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Gas tank, 40–50 gal, installed | $900–$1,800 | HearthDry |
| Electric tank, installed | $800–$1,600 | HearthDry |
| Gas tankless, installed | $2,000–$4,500 | HearthDry |
| Labor for a straight swap | $300–$600 | HearthDry |
Gas line or venting changes typically add $500–$1,500. Figures from our water heater replacement cost page. Sources: HearthDry cost pages.
Ready to book a plumber?
One call reaches a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Water heater installation: common questions
Should I replace my water heater with tankless?
Tankless costs more to install but lasts longer (about 15–20 years against 8–12 for a tank) and never runs out of hot water. For a household staying five years or more, the energy savings often pay part of the difference back.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?
Many areas require one, especially for gas units, because of venting and gas connections. A licensed plumber usually pulls it as part of the job.
Repair or replace an old water heater?
A leak from the tank body means replace. For a failed part on a tank under about 8 years old, repair is usually worth it; on an older tank, a major repair often is not.
Other plumbing services
(888) 217-6781 is the plumbing line. HearthDry is a referral service; the company you reach is independent.