Average
$1,400
Best offer
$600
High
$7,500
Water Heater
Oh, the simple joy of a hot shower after a long day at work. You belt out your favorite song at the top of your lungs. You feel the warm yet refreshing water pour over you, washing away your day. This moment can only happen thanks to the water heater in your home.
A water heater is a brilliant modern-day convenience. It ensures you have a continuous flow of hot water in your home. With a water heater, you can enjoy soaking in a warm bathtub. Hot water is necessary for doing the dishes and laundry. Life is much easier and more comfortable with a cylindrical tank or tankless water heater. Everyone should enjoy the benefit of having a water heater installed in their home.
Your water heater needs regular maintenance to prevent major problems, such as leaks and overheating, and to keep the water in your home warm. However, frequent check-ups don’t guarantee that the appliance will never break. Unfortunately, sometimes the damage is undetectable even by the most skilled professionals. If you face any water heater problems, call FixerJoe.
FixerJoe is your credible assistant when it comes to a water heater installation or repair. With our help, you will find a skilled contractor at an affordable price. Our many professionals are always ready to do their job efficiently and quickly.
Water Heater Energy Source and Types
It’s common for homeowners to feel lost or unknowledgeable while purchasing a new water heater. And that is understandable – a water heater is not an appliance to be changed often. Since heating systems are durable, you’d have to make the decision no more than twice in your whole life.
That’s why usually people know nothing about different types of water heaters and how they work. The variety of available water heaters doesn’t help to solve the issue either – heating systems come in different shapes and forms.
However, there is an ultimate factor that defines the five main water heater types – it is the energy source. Depending on the kind of energy the heating system uses, water heaters divide into:
- Conventional Water Heater
An electric heating system uses electricity to warm water in a cylindrical tank. The operating principle of this type of water heater is similar to an electric kettle.
The water inside the tank is heated until it is ready to be used – to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot water doesn’t cool off since the tanks are insulated in a specific way.
Conventional water heaters are affordable and efficient in all areas where electricity is available, no matter the climate or the weather. In addition, these heating systems come with a low installation cost because the process isn’t too complicated compared to other types.
On the other hand, conventional water heaters tend to leak more often than other heating systems. They are also energy-intensive and take up much space. Moreover, hot water runs out relatively quickly if you use a conventional water heater.
- Tankless water heater
Tankless (or on-demand) water heaters are powered by gas, propane, or electricity. They use heated coils to provide homeowners with instant and almost unlimited hot water – that is why tankless heating systems are so popular nowadays.
But this advantage is not the only one. First of all, tankless water heaters take up little space. In addition, they are more energy-efficient than any other type of water heater. Tankless water heaters also have a long lifespan, lasting up to 30 years.
Nevertheless, there are still some disadvantages of this water heater type. Tankless heating systems are much more costly than other types, and this price doesn’t seem reasonable. The monthly savings are not commensurate with the water heater and installation cost. If you have a big family, this type of water heater isn’t for you either – hot water will likely go cold quickly because of the simultaneous use.
If you want a tankless water heater installed in your home, call FixerJoe. Our many contractors are experienced and ready to help when it comes to a water heater installation.
- Heat pump water heater
Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move the heat from the surrounding air and ground to the cold water. A heat pump water heater is your electricity bills’ new best friend.
Because it doesn’t generate heat, this water heater uses about 60% less electricity than a conventional one. Heat pump water heaters also require less maintenance – they need professional checks every 3–5 years.
However, they are not perfect, so there are several downsides. Heat pump water heaters are less durable than other types, as their lifespan is only 10 years on average. Moreover, these heating systems are expensive. They also take up at least 1,000 cubic feet of space and don’t work in extremely cold or hot climates.
- Solar Water Heater
All water heaters are energy-efficient. However, the solar-powered type is the most cost-effective of them all.
The source of energy for this type of water heater is a roof-mounted solar panel. The heat-conductive material is connected to the water tank.
The main advantage of this system is its sustainability, as it uses a renewable source of energy – the sun. In addition, a solar water heater can lower your water and electricity bills. Unfortunately, this option is not for you if there are many cloudy and rainy days in your area. A solar water heater also requires rooftop space, and its installation is expensive.
- Condensing Water Heater
Condensing water heaters use hot gases that exit the house through a flue to heat water. They are sustainable, energy-efficient, and can reduce your natural gas bills.
Condensing water heaters provide homeowners with instant hot water, just like tankless ones.
On the other hand, this heating system is expensive, as many hidden costs come with its installation. Moreover, the water heater itself is large, because it is designed to accommodate 55 gallons of water.
If you aren’t sure what type of water heater you need, contact FixerJoe. Find your perfect water heater contractor via our company. Professionals at FixerJoe will be happy to discuss the different options with you. They will help you find the best water heater for your home.
Tools Used for Water Heater Install
Only a licensed contractor can install or replace your water heater. Contact FixerJoe for a professional water heater installation. Our many contractors are skilled and equipped. Here’s the list of what they will bring for a successful water heater installation.
Water Heater Installation
A water heater should be installed properly to prevent many problems such as leaks and inefficiency. The installation requires plumbing, carpentry, and electrical skills, so you shouldn't do it yourself. Instead, to make sure the installation goes well, hire a professional contractor to perform it.
Water heater contractors at FixerJoe are happy to put their training to use. They have the tools, knowledge and skills to complete your water heater installation. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
The installation process varies significantly by water heater type. A conventional water heater installation follows these simple steps:
- A skilled plumber will turn the power off and put your water heater in a drain pan.
- The discharge pipe will be installed, and the water will be hooked up by attaching the hoses with the plumber’s tape.
- A trained handyman will secure the fitting to the hose and the compression nut – to the pipe.
- A professional plumber will turn on the water supply to check connections for leaks.
- A team member will fill the tank. Then, the wiring will be connected, and the power will be turned on.
- A certified plumber will set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and check the discharge pipe for leaks.
- The area will be cleaned up.
Contractors at FixerJoe will do a thorough job while ensuring your safety. Contact our company for a quality water heater installation.
Water Heater Repair
Like all other home appliances, your water heater may need repairs at some point. Call FixerJoe for a quick and affordable water heater repair, if you notice any of the following conditions.
- Water heater leaking
The leaks can be caused by multiple reasons, such as a faulty T&P relief valve or loose bolts.
If you suspect your water heater system leaks, call us to fix the problem as soon as possible. - The water runs cold
Water temperature problems are the most common ones. They are usually caused by a faulty thermostat, a broken heating element, or a lack of power.
Do you notice that the water in your home is starting to run colder? Contact FixerJoe for a professional repair. - Corrosion
If your hot water is red, brown or orange, have your water heater checked for corrosion. Sometimes the easiest solution to this problem is to replace the water heater, but, in many cases, it can be repaired.
Call us immediately after you notice any signs of corrosion. Contractors at FixerJoe are ready to fix or replace your water heater at all times. - The pilot light goes on and off
Does the pilot light of your propane or natural gas water heater intermittently go on and off?
The cause of this problem usually lies in thermocouple issues. Contact our company to fix any problems with your gas water heater.
If you’ve experienced any of these red flags, don’t hesitate to call FixerJoe. A contractor of your choice will immediately arrive for an emergency water heater repair.
First, a skilled plumber will thoroughly evaluate the problem. Second, a professional will determine the best solution to it. The contractor will also discuss with you the possibility of replacement over the repair cost. Contact FixerJoe today to get started.
Water Heater Installation and Repair Cost
The overall cost of a water heater installation ranges between $500 and $4,600, depending on the type and size of the water heater, labor costs, and energy source.
Storage tank water heaters make up more than 85% of all domestic water heaters in the United States. A tank-type water heater installation averages between $500 and $2,100, including the water heater, materials, and labor. The unit price ranges between $400 and $1,000.
Gas water heaters are more expensive than electric ones – they cost $100 to $700 more. However, a gas water heater costs $220 less per year to operate, compared to an electric water heater. The labor cost for a tank-type water heater installation varies depending on the location, the type and size of the water heater, and the hourly rates in your area. Usually, a plumber charges $45 to $150 per hour, and the installation takes 2–6 hours.
Gas Water Heater
Electric Water Heater
Solar Water Heater
On-demand water heaters have proven to be highly efficient over the past few decades. They can cost between $800 and $3,500 to install.
While the unit price ranges between $500 and $1,500, the contractors’ hourly rate stays the same.
However, the labor costs would still be higher, because a tankless water heater installation takes 6.5 hours on average.
The total cost to install a heat pump water heater is $1,500 to $4,400. The unit alone costs $1,200 to $2,800. The cost to install a solar water heater is $3,000 to $9,000, or $1,500 to $6,600 after tax credits and rebates. A condensing water heater costs $900 to $4,000 to install.
The factors that may impact the total cost of the installation include a new expansion tank installation, an old tank removal, local permits, switching from one type of energy to another, and carpentry work. An expansion tank is a system that prevents pipe bursts in case of a water heater tank failure. Installing a new expansion tank will cost anywhere from $40 to $350.
Removing an old tank to replace it with a new one will cost $100 to $500, depending on the contractor's hourly rate, tank size, and accessibility. The price for moving your water heater to a new location in your home ranges between $200 and $10,000. Many areas require a special plumbing permit to replace a water heater, which may cost up to $1,500.
Tank
Water Heater
$140
$700
Tankless Water Heater
$90
$550
Hybrid Water Heater
$150
$800
The average cost to repair a water heater varies between $200 and $800. Most homeowners spend around $250 on a heating element repair. The element itself costs about $20, but it takes some time to replace it, so the labor cost is high. The price for a thermostat repair ranges between $150 and $200. A faulty T&P relief valve would cost you $20 to $200 to repair. The price for relighting the pilot light is $95 on average. Expect to pay up to $200 for a thermocouple replacement.
Your water heater installation and repair shouldn’t be performed by amateurs. Call FixerJoe today for professional help. Our many contractors have at least five years of experience. They are skilled and determined to do their job excellently. Contact us to receive a free estimate of water heater installation or repair costs.
Q&A
Recent projects of customers who found contractors through Fixer Joe
Contents
Water heaters are appliances that have become vital to our daily lives. They play an important part in our daily tasks, such as washing the dishes or taking a shower. Water heaters can affect our daily mood, routine, and quality of life. To make your everyday life better, a water heater should be properly installed and repaired in time.
FixerJoe is your reliable assistant when it comes to finding the fastest and the most efficient water heater contractor and installer in town. Our many contractors are certified and knowledgeable. They are fully insured service providers. No matter the system type, professionals at FixerJoe can complete a water heater installation or repair in a blink of an eye. They offer their services at a price that is realistic and affordable. You can see our contractors’ past projects below.
