Water Heater Repair

Replacing a hot water heater iWIolves average labor costs that generally fall within a range of $300 to $500. Factors that can influence the final price include your location, the type of water heater you're using, and the overall complexity of the job in question. Some businesses additionally hike up the labor rate somewhat for more sizable projects, which could make the cost of replacing a hot water heater align more closely with the upper end of this average.

A professional plumber is your best bet if your hot water heater is on the blink. These skilled and well-equipped folks easily diagnose and fix the problems that make water heaters stop working. Trying to haphazardly troubleshoot or repair the heater is dangerous and could make a better water flow—even hot water, as in the case of an overworked and wrongly wired problem heater—come out of your plumbing fixtures. Your first call, then, should be to a plumbing professional. You might also check with your heater's manufacturer; in some cases, they might handle repairs, as well.

A water heater's most common malfunction is simply not providing enough hot water. This may be due to an improperly functioning heating element. It can also be because the thermostat is set too low or isn't controlling the temperature as well as it should. Another possible problem could be that sediment has been building up in the bottom of the tank over time, making it difficult for the heater to keep the water at the right temperature. No matter the issue, you can usually fix it yourself. A heater usually lasts a long time, but it does need some basic maintenance now and then.

A water heater's normal life expectancy is typically about 8 to 12 years. This can change, though, depending on how well the unit is maintained, the water heater's type, and the water quality. To make the heater last longer and work more efficiently, try these tips: Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment buildup. Check the pressure relief valve once a year to make sure it isn't stuck. Run the water heater at a setting safe for household use (120°F is typical). And if your water heater is older than 8 years and is showing signs of trouble, consider early replacement.

Replacing a water heater is a job that seems to require more art than science. The first part of the job—removing the old heater and putting in the new one—requires the special skills of a master plumber. Why master? Because there are three things that need to be handled safely: gas, electricity, and water. If any one of these is not plumbed perfectly in the heater or around the heater, the result can be catastrophic—a huge leak that will flood your basement if the heater is in the basement, a fire, or, in a worst-case scenario, both. When "plumbing" could lead to so much disaster, is it really any wonder that you pay a lot of dollars for and plumbers' "replace a water heater" services?

Normally, a plumber takes around two to three hours to replace a water heater. This period also accounts for the disconnection and reconnection of power and water to the unit. Should the old water heater be drained during this time? Of course, if work has to stop and the old unit has to be drained, that's an additional step that might add a little more time to the process. We also need to consider what happens if everything doesn't go just right and if we need to account for some extra work to get all of the new connections and the old connections to the old water heater just right so that the new water heater works properly.

Lowe's may charge various amounts for the installation of water heaters. It mostly depends on the size and type of water heater and the location of the homeowner. On average, it may cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 for the installation. Lowe's usually serves as a good estimator if you're attempting to get a ballpark figure for what it may cost in your area.

The coverage of a water heater under a home insurance policy depends on the particulars of the situation. Home insurance generally covers sudden, unexpected water heater problems that cause damage, such as a burst pipe. But if the water heater has stopped working due to maintenance issues or normal wear and tear, then it is likely that home insurance will not cover the problem. Reading the details of the home insurance policy and consulting with the insurance agent can clear up much of the confusion.

The cost of installing a 40-gallon water heater by a plumber can be affected by a number of different factors, so the prices tend to vary. On the low end, you might find a complete installation that costs $500, and then on the high end, expect to pay around $1,500. Included in this price range is the actual water heater, so you're not just paying for the labor. That is, if you can avoid paying for extra labor, like if the installer needs to change out some old pipes or add new valves to your system. Your individual situation and the existing work that needs to be done can also greatly affect the final price.

Costs can accumulate when installing a water heater, as many supplies and much skilled labor are required. First, you have the significant purchase of the water heater itself, which can be especially pricey if it’s an energy-efficient model or one that uses advanced technology. Next, you must supply the necessary tools and extra parts to connect the heater to your home, like pipes and fittings, to do the job right. And then there’s the professional labor, which is a very good idea to pay for because these installers know how to handle the water, electricity, or gas connections safely and in accordance with local building codes. They are worth the price for the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job will be done correctly.