Elevate your home’s efficiency: get the scoop on tankless water heater installation costs

Tankless water heaters are gaining popularity due to their energy efficiency and space-saving design. If you’re considering upgrading to a tankless system, one of the key factors to consider is the installation cost. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of the various factors that influence the cost of tankless water heater installation, helping you make an informed decision.

Factors Affecting Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost

1. Type of Tankless Water Heater

There are two main types of tankless water heaters: gas and electric. Gas tankless water heaters are typically more expensive to install than electric models due to the additional cost of gas lines.

2. Size of the Water Heater

The size of the tankless water heater, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), determines the amount of hot water it can deliver. Larger units with higher GPM ratings will generally cost more to install.

3. Location of the Water Heater

The location of the water heater also impacts the installation cost. If the water heater is being installed in a remote or hard-to-access area, it may require additional labor and materials, increasing the overall cost.

4. Existing Plumbing and Electrical

The condition of your existing plumbing and electrical systems can affect the installation cost. If significant upgrades or modifications are required, it can add to the total expense.

5. Labor Costs

The cost of labor will vary depending on the location, the complexity of the installation, and the experience of the contractor.

6. Permits and Inspections

In most cases, installing a tankless water heater will require permits and inspections. The cost of these permits can vary depending on the local regulations.

7. Warranty

The warranty offered by the manufacturer can also impact the cost of installation. A longer warranty may indicate a higher-quality product and may come with a higher installation fee.

Estimated Cost of Tankless Water Heater Installation

The average cost of tankless water heater installation can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the factors discussed above. Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs:

• Gas tankless water heater: $2,000 to $4,000
• Electric tankless water heater: $1,500 to $3,000
• Labor: $500 to $1,500
• Permits and inspections: $50 to $200
• Warranty: $100 to $300

Savings and Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

While the upfront cost of tankless water heater installation may be higher than traditional water heaters, they offer several long-term savings and benefits:

• Energy efficiency: Tankless water heaters heat water only when needed, eliminating standby heat loss and saving on energy costs.
• Space saving: Tankless water heaters are compact and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up valuable floor space.
• Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional water heaters, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years.
• Unlimited hot water: Tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water, eliminating the issue of running out of hot water during peak usage.

Finding a Qualified Contractor

To ensure a successful and cost-effective tankless water heater installation, it’s crucial to find a qualified contractor. Look for contractors who:

• Are licensed and insured
• Have experience installing tankless water heaters
• Offer a warranty on their workmanship

Wrapping Up: The True Cost of Tankless Water Heater Installation

The cost of tankless water heater installation can vary significantly based on several factors. However, by considering the type of water heater, size, location, existing plumbing and electrical, labor costs, permits and inspections, and warranty, you can estimate the potential expense. While the initial cost may be higher than traditional water heaters, the long-term savings and benefits of tankless water heaters make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?

On average, it takes 4-6 hours to install a tankless water heater, depending on the complexity of the installation.

2. Is it worth installing a tankless water heater?

If you’re looking for energy efficiency, unlimited hot water, and a longer lifespan, then a tankless water heater can be a worthwhile investment.

3. What are the maintenance costs for a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance, typically involving an annual flush and inspection. The cost of maintenance can range from $100 to $200 per year.