Since replacing your water heater can be expensive, you may wonder whether Home Depot offers favorable installation rates. This post will examine Home Depot water heater installation costs and the overall process to give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
Contents
Does Home Depot Install Water Heaters?
Home Depot provides water heater installation services in most areas of the US. They install gas or electricity-powered traditional tanks and tankless water heaters.
The installation costs range from $1500 to $3000 and include the water heater, installation permits, installation materials, and labor by a local, licensed, and insured plumber.
Below are the costs of installing different types of water heaters.
| Type of water heater | Cost of installation |
| Tank water heater | $400 – $3,000 |
| Tankless water heater | $800 -$3500 |
| Point of use water heater | $300-$1500 |
| Smart water heater | $1500-$4000 |
| Under sink water heater | $150-$300 |
| Solar water heater | $3500-$4000 |
What types of water heaters does Home Depot sell?
- Tank water heaters (gas & electric) – a typical tank water heater has an electric or gas element that heats the water within the tank. They are available in various sizes, from 20 to 80 gallons
- Tankless water heaters (gas & electric) – these heaters do not have a storage tank. Instead, they use an electric or gas element to heat the water as it enters the home through pipes
- Point-of-use water heaters – they provide hot water where you need it – at specific locations within a home, such as a kitchen sink or shower
- Smart water heaters – use smart technology, and you can control them remotely using a phone. Many models also include energy-saving features that help reduce your utility bill each month
- Under sink water heaters – fits right under your sink and provide hot water instantly. It preheats water when it passes through a pipes and stores a small amount of hot water
- Solar Heaters – These units harness the power of the sun to provide hot water for your entire household without using any electricity
Factors to Consider for a New Water Heater
Here are some factors that affect the cost of water heater installation:
- Type and brand of water heater – The type of water heater you choose will affect your installation costs significantly. For instance, tankless water heaters are costlier than storage tank types because they require additional wiring and piping components that add up in price quickly. However, they use less energy than traditional storage tanks since they heat water as it passes through them rather than storing hot water in one location until it is needed
- Basic installation – If all you want is basic installation services and no other upgrades, you can expect to pay less on labor
- Permit charges per state – Permit charges may vary from state-to-state, so if you move from one location to another, you may be required to pay more in permit fees. On average, permit fees range from $100 to $500
- Additional labor costs – Labor costs can vary depending on the work needed to install your new water heater. In addition to replacing the water heater unit, you might need professional help with other related tasks such as relocating the fuel line or installing electrical connections. These tasks can increase your overall project cost significantly
- Location of the water heater – the location of your water heater can significantly impact its cost. For example, if you’re installing a tankless hot water system, you’ll need to install it in an accessible location to connect to your main water supply line. Otherwise, the entire installation process will be more expensive than usual
What’s the Process Like?
When you purchase a water heater from Home Depot, it is installed by a vetted and licensed professional. Home Depot also offers same-day installations if you live within 30 miles of a Home Depot store. However, you must buy the water heater on Monday to Friday and make an installation appointment before noon.
Request a free consultation
You can request a free consultation at your local Home Depot store. Use the Home Depot store finder to see the nearest outlet based on your location.
To request for consultation online, you must first establish whether the services are available in your area. To do this, go to the Home Depot website and enter your zip code and other necessary details.
Once done, you’ll get a free estimate based on your requirements and budget. You can also request an estimate by calling Home Depot at 1-(855) 400-2552.
Site Inspection
After you’ve selected your water heater, Home Depot will send a trained technician to your home to evaluate the plumbing system. The technician will also assess the installation site and give you a final quote.
What’s included in Home Depot’s Water Heater Installation Services?
Home Depot’s water heater installation services include everything from the initial assessment of your needs to the installation of your new water heater.
The time it takes to install a water heater depends on the unit and how complicated your plumbing system is. For example, a tank-to-tank installation may take 2–3 hours, a tank-to-tankless installation may take 3-4 hours, and tankless to tankless installation may take 1-3 hours.
Home Depot also stocks various parts for different kinds of water heaters. You can order the parts online and have them shipped directly to your house.
After installing a new water heater, Home Depot installers can help with hauling away the old unit. Home Depot won’t charge you for removing the old heater since it is factored in the new water heater installation fees.
How good is Home Depot’s Water Heater Installation?
Home Depot’s water heater installation services have high ratings, with an average of 4.4 out of 5 by 23864 reviewers on their website. The retailer uses only licensed installers trained in working with each manufacturer’s products to provide quality services every time.
Most customers have had positive experiences with their installers, but some have complained about poor customer service and incorrect billing. Some customers also complained about poor communication from Home Depot’s customer service team.
After installing your water heater, Home Depot offers a 3-year labor warranty and will provide free maintenance and repairs within the period. You can also purchase an additional Home Depot water heater protection plan. The plan starts upon the expiry of the manufacturer’s labor warranty and runs for five years.
7 Signs That Your Water Heater Needs Replacing
If you’ve had your water heater for a while, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. Here are some common signs that your water heater needs replacing.
- Your unit is louder than usual
- If the hot water isn’t as hot as it used to be
- You’ve noticed a strong odor coming from your water heater
- Your water heater is more than ten years old
- The water is discolored or has rust stains
- It can’t maintain a steady temperature
- It has low water pressure
What Brand of Water Heater is the Most Reliable?
The most reliable brand of water heater is Rheem. Rheem water heaters are well-known for their reliability and offer an extensive line of gas and electric models that meet various needs and budgets.
The company makes different models such as the gladiator, hybrid, smart electric, Marathon, HotWave, and so on. Rheem water heaters are available as tank and tankless water heaters, solar water heaters, point of use, and hybrid water heaters, among others. Their products are also covered by a full manufacturer’s warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment is protected.
What is the Lifespan of Water Heaters?
A water heater’s lifespan depends on the unit’s type, use, and maintenance. The lifespan of a gas water heater is usually 10-12 years, while an electric water heater runs for 8-10 years. Well-maintained water heaters can last up to 15 years.
FAQs
Can you return a water heater to Home Depot?
You can return your water heater within 90 days of purchase to the Home Depot for a full refund or exchange. Remember to carry the receipt or a copy of the shipping confirmation email, the credit card used during purchase, and a valid ID.
Does Home Depot install water heaters for free?
Home Depot doesn’t install water heaters for free. The installation costs range between $1,000 and $3,000.
Can you install a water heater by yourself?
You can install a water heater by yourself. However, you need to have basic plumbing and electrical knowledge, get a work permit and make arrangements for the inspection of the work by the local authorities.
Which is easier to install — electric or gas heaters?
Electric heaters are easier to install since they don’t need additional fixtures like chimneys. However, gas heaters have lower operational costs.
What is the average labor cost per hour to install a water heater from Home Depot?
The average cost of labor is $50-$150 per hour. However, labor costs may increase if the installation site requires additional plumbing or electrical work.
Conclusion
Home Depot provides water heater installation for various units such as tank and tankless water heaters, point-of-use water heaters, smart water heaters, under sink water heaters, and so on. On average, the cost of installing a water heater using Home Depot’s installers is between $1,000 and $3000, including the cost of the unit. Home Depot provides free consultation online, in-store, or over the phone to help you choose the best water heater according to your budget and needs.
