Key takeaways:
- A new water heater can cost between $1,500 and $3,000, including installation and potential upgrades.
- Choosing the right type (tank vs. tankless, gas vs. electric) impacts both performance and long-term savings.
- Don’t just go with the first “water heater installation near me” search result — take time to find a licensed, trusted pro.
A new water heater can set you back as much as $3,000; a big investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. So, before you jump to book the first result that pops up when you search for ‘water heater installation near me’, take a moment to do your homework.
Choosing the right system and installer could save you thousands and ensure your new water heater truly fits your needs.
We’ve got your back! Read on and learn everything you need to know before making the switch.
What Kind of Water Heater Do You Need?
Choosing the wrong water heater can mean spending more on energy bills and consistently running out of hot water.
Asking the following questions will help narrow down your choices.
Tank or Tankless Water Heater?
A tank water heater keeps water warm and readily available, which is ideal for larger households. The tradeoff is that your energy bills will be slightly higher.
If energy efficiency and lower bills are your top priorities, a tankless water heater can be a good option. Keep in mind that tankless appliances are best for apartments and small homes where saving space is a plus and hot water usage is limited.
Is a Gas or Electric Water Heater Best?
The simple answer is that sticking to the kind of fuel source you already have is the best way to save on water heater installation costs.
Replacing a gas line with an electrical circuit (or the other way around) will add hundreds to the total cost of replacing your water heater.
However, if you’re ready for an upgrade, switching to a gas water heater can lower your energy bills, while opting for an electric model is best for your carbon footprint.
Which Water Heater Size or Flow Capacity Do I Need?
A 50—or 60-gallon water heater is great for small households (think one or two people). If your family has three or four people, you should upgrade to an 80-gallon model for comfort.
If you’re looking for a tankless heater, you’ll want to look at flow capacity to know how much hot water your new appliance can deliver. A 3.5 GPM model is a good fit if it will provide hot water to a single fixture at a time. If you need water for two or three fixtures simultaneously, get a 5 GPM model or higher.
Understand Water Heater Installation Costs & What’s Included
How much does a new water heater cost? Realistically, you’re looking to spend anywhere from $1,500 to over $3,000.
The type of water heater you’re getting is a big thing impacting the price. Count on spending $600 to $3,000 for the appliance itself:
- Gas water heaters typically cost $600 to $1,500.
- Electric models cost a little more, ranging from $600 to $2,000.
- A tankless water heater comes with a price tag of $1,000 to $3,000.
- Anti-scale features or smart controls can increase these price ranges by a few hundred.
Next, you’ll have to account for the labor cost of installing a water heater. A simple water heater replacement takes 3 to 5 hours to complete, which means paying $400 to $700 is a fair price for labor costs.
However, getting a new water heater isn’t always as easy as swapping the old appliance for a new one. You might have to cover additional costs:
- Your water heater installer will work with gas and electrical connections, which means paying for a permit.
- You might have to replace additional elements, including your drip pan, expansion tank, or pressure valve.
- Unless you’re getting the same make and model of water heater, you’re probably considering paying for a few plumbing adjustments.
- If you’re replacing a gas water heater with an electric one (or the other way around), you’ll need to spend another $200 to $900, depending on the complexity of the project.
- Likewise, getting a tankless water heater for the first time means installing a new electric circuit.
Pick a trustworthy contractor and get a quote from them to avoid surprises.
Choose a Licensed Local Professional Water Heater Expert
DIYing a water heater installation is a bad idea. You’ll need to connect the appliance to gas lines or electrical circuits, which can be dangerous. Plus, if you make a mistake, you could violate your local building code and even void your homeowner’s insurance policy and the warranty that comes with your new water heater.
Hiring a local plumbing contractor is your best and safest option. Here’s what to look for:
- Choose someone with a valid contractor license and ask for their insurance documentation.
- Take a few minutes to look for online reviews. Are customers happy with their work?
- Ask a few questions. Ensure they have plenty of experience with the type of water heater you want to install.
Water Heater Installation Near Me in Middle Tennessee
Are you looking for a trusted water heater installation service in Nashville?
Airstream is a local company with deep expertise in plumbing and everything related to water heaters. Our technicians are here to help with water heater repairs and installation services and will go above and beyond to deliver high-quality workmanship and customer service.
Let’s talk about replacing your water heater! Book your water heater service today.
Water Heater Installation FAQs by Airstream Services
How much does a new water heater cost?
You’ll probably spend between $1,500 and $3,000, including the cost of the appliance, labor fees, and other expenses.
Can you do a DIY installation of a water heater?
No, it’s best to have a professional install your new water heater and safely connect it to gas or electrical lines.
Is a tank or tankless water heater better?
It depends. A tankless model can help conserve water and energy, but flow limitations can be an issue for large households.
What size water heater do I need for my household?
A 50 or 60-gallon water heater is ideal for one or two people. Upgrade to an 80-gallon model or above if you have a larger household.
How long do water heaters last on average?
A water heater should last 8 to 12 years, but factors like moderately hard water in the Nashville area can shorten this lifespan.
