How much does it cost to install electric water heater

The domestic electric water heater may be either a tank-type or a tankless type.

Table of Contents Show

Other considerations and costs
DIY considerations
Tank vs. Tankless Systems
Type of Water Heater
Additional Considerations
Why is installing a water heater so expensive?
How much does an electric water heater cost?
Can I install an electric hot water heater myself?
Are electric water heaters worth it?

Typical domestic tank-type water heaters range from 30 to 50 gallons and they require floor space to be installed. Tankless units are rated in gallons per minute (GPM) and range from 2 to 10 GPM. They can be wall mounted and located in reduced spaces.

You will find that electric water heaters are less expensive to buy than gas types even before considering the cost of gas ventilation and gas pipe requirements, but in most regions electricity is the more costly heat source. Tankless heaters may cost more, but are considered lower cost to operate with their higher efficiency.

The cost to install average electric water heating depends upon type, heating flow and tank capacity, preparation and special needs, and the labor rate.

In the following table the Labor Cost figure is what the able and prepared DIY persons should expect to save by performing the corresponding tasks.

Electric water heater replacement: for 4 or 5 person home; includes old material removal and disposal, transport, new material and installation, equipment, and waste.

Item	Unit Cost	Quantity	Line Cost
1. Water heater: 40 gallon tank, 240V, 9 kW.	$297	each	1	$297
2. Upgrade tankless: additional cost to install tankless unit; 5.3 gallons per minute, 240V, 27 kW, 2 bathrooms.	$418	each	1	$418
3. Upgrade electrical: install new circuit for upgraded tankless; 30 feet of ROMEX surface mounted cable, #6/3; 2 each 60 amp breaker into existing spaces; single outlet box and cover.	$4.72	per foot	32	$151
4. Removal: transport and non-hazardous dump fees.	$45	per CY	1.5	$68
Fees and Material Cost	$934	each	1	$934
5. + Labor Cost (remove and dispose)	$32	per hour	2	$64
6. + Labor Cost (install)	$42	per hour	4	$168
7. + Labor Cost (upgrade tankless)	$42	per hour	1	$42
8. + Labor Cost (upgrade electrical)	$42	per hour	3	$126
Total Cost	$1,334	each	1	$1,334

Other considerations and costs

These prices are for service in the immediate area of the provider.
Taxes and permit fees are not included.
Warranty extensions are available at extra cost.
Higher end models include Wi-Fi based monitoring and control devices.
Electric heaters are less of a location-planning challenge without venting or hard pipe, but the tankless units may require a special high power electric circuit.
The cost to operate the heater follows the cost of electricity in the region.
All types require strict compliance with all pertinent local codes and regulations.
Often times when a water heater requires replacement it turns out that the installation will need to be upgraded to latest codes and regulations regarding ventilation or earthquake preparation.
During contractor inspection the homeowner should be informed of any repair concerns like rot, and any cost to adapt the existing structure.

DIY considerations

In the very best of cases this installation may be suitable for the able DIY persons, but home insurance or local codes may require a licensed or certified installer.
In all cases there can arise issues best left to professionals to resolve on the spot.
A fairly complete plumbing tool set will be required, perhaps including a torch.

References

Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2015.
Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
Literature review of DIY Web sites.

Water heaters are one of the most used household appliances in homes around the world. A functional water heater is nothing short of a blessing in winter. One of the things to consider when planning a water heater installation project is the installation cost. The cost of installing a 40-50-gallon water heater with a tank ranges from $400 to $900. The installation cost for a tankless water heater is usually between $1,470 and $2,500. The overall cost of owning a water heater will depend on a number of factors such as the number of people using the heater, operating expenses, and remodeling done in the home.

Tank vs. Tankless Systems

While several plumbing contractors in Alpharetta believe that tankless heaters are more energy efficient, many people argue that they are not as beneficial as they are billed to be. A tankless water heater can cost you up to as much as $2500 installed. A tank water heater is relatively inexpensive (up to $900 installed). Tankless systems are difficult to maintain. Though households using these systems report a saving of $70-$80/year, it takes those years to recover the difference in the initial cost. If you prefer using your heater to perform more than one task at the same time, opt for a tank water heater. These heaters are relatively easier to maintain, and provide hot water more quickly than their tankless counterparts.

Labor

Plumbers typically charge $45-$65 per hour. In most cases, a plumber will install a water heater in a day (6-8 hours). You can expect to pay between $270 and $520. Water heaters that are difficult to access can take extra 2-3 hours to install.

Type of Water Heater

Some of the most popular types of water heater systems are natural gas systems, propane water heaters, electric water heaters, and solar water heater systems. Natural gas systems are known for their affordability ($500-$700). Expect to pay between $400 and $550 for natural gas water heater replacement in Alpharetta.On average, getting a new natural gas water heater system installation will cost you between $1,500 and $2,300. Propane water heater installation will cost you around $1,000-$1,500. Though getting an electric water heater installed normally costs between $350 and $450, the original cost can exceed $500 if there are structural complexities. A fully installed water heater can cost up to $5,000.

Additional Considerations

If you want to get an existing water heater replaced, add $500 to the overall cost. If you’re old water heater pipe is damaged or not compatible with the new system, you will have to purchase new piping ($8-$10 per linear foot). Check with your plumbing contractor in Alpharetta whether you need permits for a new water heater.

Your search for a plumbing expert ends at Fletch Barney. We are one of the most trusted plumbing contractors in Alpharetta. Whether you have a water heater repair problem in Alpharetta or need sewer line repair services in Alpharetta, we got you covered. To discuss your project with an expert, call us at 770-333-3031.

Why is installing a water heater so expensive?

The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For electrical tankless heaters, new electric wiring will need to be installed.

How much does an electric water heater cost?

Electric Water Heater Most electric water heaters cost between $500 and $800. Of that, a majority are in the $500 to $600 range.

Can I install an electric hot water heater myself?

Installing a water heater is no average DIY project. You must have plumbing, electrical, heating ventilating, and carpentry skills, know state and local building codes, obtain a permit for the work and arrange with your municipality for an inspection of the work.

Are electric water heaters worth it?

Electric water heaters offer many advantages, including being simple to install, easy to use, and good for the environment. While typically less expensive up-front, electric water heaters can cost more to operate.