The process of hot water heater installation is not an easy task at all for most homeowners. This is a task best done by professional plumbers, pre- and post-installation maintenance.
So, how long does it take to install a water heater, and what happens throughout this process?
Continue reading below to learn more!
Water Heater Installation: The Entire Process
How long does it take to install a water heater?
While it only takes about 2 to 3 hours for a licensed plumber to install your new water heater, there are still other factors to consider regarding the time that you need to spend for your new water heater installation:
Professional Consultation
This can be done via call or a physical appointment with your preferred plumber. You may spend at least 1 to 2 hours of consultation especially if you still need professional advice on the type of water heater to choose.
If you need to replace an existing water heater, the plumber will have to check on the following information:
- Location of the old water heater
- Size of the current water heater installed
- Tank or tankless water heater
- If it runs on gas or electricity
Appointment Schedule
This schedule depends on how urgent the situation is, especially if you really need to replace an old water heater with a new unit. You need to set an appointment as soon as possible for a water heater replacement.
Prepare for the Water Heater Installation Appointment
You can prepare your bathroom or the area where the plumbers will work to install your new water heater at least a day before the appointment. First, you can take photos of the area and send them to your plumber so they can have a glimpse of the location and size of your current water heater unit.
Additionally, you can also do the following procedures:
- Make sure that the surrounding area is clean
- Remove clutter and boxes
- Make sure that the plumbers will have a clear path once they bring the new water heater inside the bathroom
- Measure your doors for the plumbers to determine the best entry point for the new water heater
During the Water Heater Installation
If it would be your very first water heater installation without any replacement, it would take 1 to 2 hours depending on the type of water heater to be installed.
On the other hand, if your plumber needs to replace an existing water heater, here’s a quick timeline of how long would it take to install a new unit:
- Tankless to tankless water heaters: 1 to 3 hours
- Tank-to-tank water heaters: If the plumber would install a similar model, it would take about 2 to 3 hours
- Tank to tankless water heaters: This installation would take longer than expected because additional time would be needed to install new water lines, vents, and power lines.
FAQs About Water Heater Installation:
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about water heater installation:
How long does it take to remove and reinstall a water heater?
The time it takes to remove and reinstall a water heater can vary depending on several factors such as the type of water heater, the location of the water heater, and the experience of the person installing it. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-4 hours for a professional plumber to remove and reinstall a water heater. It may take longer for DIY projects though.
How much does it cost to install a 50-gallon water heater?
The cost to install a 50-gallon water heater can vary depending on several factors such as location, type of water heater, and labor costs. On average, installing a 50-gallon unit can range anywhere from $400 to $2,500, depending on the fuel type, brand, and efficiency rating.
A standard electric water heater can cost around $300 to $600, while a standard gas water heater can cost around $400 to $800. However, more efficient models and those from well-known brands can cost more.
For a tankless water heater, a unit costs around $500 to $2000. Installation costs may incur an additional cost of $500 to $1,500, depending on the system’s size and capacity.
It’s important to also note that these costs are for the installation of a new water heater, if you have to remove the old one and dispose of it, that could add extra fees. And if your current setup doesn’t meet current safety standards or local codes, the cost may be higher. It is always best to get several quotes from different professionals to get an accurate estimate for your specific project.
[Related: How Does A Tankless Water Heater Work? (Pros And Cons)]
Why is water heater installation so expensive?
Water heater installation can be expensive for several reasons:
- Labor costs: Installing a water heater requires specialized skills and knowledge, and the labor costs for a plumber or HVAC technician can be high.
- Materials: The cost of the water heater itself and any necessary materials (such as piping or venting) can add to the overall cost of installation.
- Safety and Code compliance: Water heaters must comply with local building codes and safety regulations, which can add to the overall cost. For example, if your current setup doesn’t meet current safety standards or local codes, more work will be needed to bring it up to code.
- Additional equipment: Some water heaters require additional equipment, such as a condensate pump, expansion tank, or special valves to operate safely. These will add extra cost to the installation.
- Removing old heater: If you need to remove an old water heater, that will add extra labor costs to the overall project.
[Related: Ultimate Buying Guide: Water Heaters]
Get a Professional Quotation from a Certified Plumber!
For an extensive water heater installation, it is always best to get help from a professional plumbing company. At Stellar Plumbing, we are proud to say that we have over 20 years of experience in plumbing services, and you can rely on our expertise to install your new heater and other plumbing fixtures.
Contact us today to get a quote and appointment!