Which Factors Determine the Cost of Water Heater Replacement?
- Installation Complexity
- Water Tank Size
- Electric Vs. Gas
- Your Plumber
Installation Complexity
The difficulty of installing the water heater can play a role in the time the plumber requires and the cost to install your water heater. Generally, older homes built before modern building codes require an extended timeframe for installation. For example, the plumber may need to solder new connections when older piping and fittings degrade. Meanwhile, gas-powered water heaters require proper ventilation, which may extend the installation time.
Water Tank Size
The size of the tank and its capacity also add to the overall cost of the water tank replacement. Specific tank sizes and prices depend on the model and style. If you have a smaller home and only 2 or 3 people using your hot water, you may be able to use a 50-gallon tank. A family home with up to 5 people may require an 80-gallon tank. Your plumber can help you analyze water heater demand and select a tank size suitable for your family over the long term.
Electric Vs. Gas Water Heaters
A leading differentiator of a new water heater is the choice between electric and gas heaters. Because gas water heaters require venting and are more complicated to install, gas water heater installation is generally more expensive than installing a new electric water heater. However, the data shows electric water heaters have higher operating costs. Another benefit of a gas water heater is having access to hot water if the power goes out in the home.
Your Plumber’s Water Heating Installation Experience
Your plumber’s installation experience is a vital consideration when assessing the total price of the water heater replacement service. For gas water heater installation, your plumber requires a Class-B Gas Fitter License from Technical Safety BC and a Contractor License for approval to work in residential properties throughout British Columbia.
Ensure you speak directly with the plumber completing the installation work on your home and that they have proven their experience over many years of water heater installation projects throughout Vancouver. Choosing a qualified water heater installer will save you thousands of dollars in potential future repair and replacement costs from a leaky, poor-fitting heater!
Our Service Areas
Providing urgent plumbing services in West Vancouver with a focus on quality and speed.
Quick and dependable plumbing solutions are available throughout Burnaby at any hour.
Expert emergency plumbing support for homes and businesses across Coquitlam.
Expert emergency plumbing support for homes and businesses across Coquitlam.
FAQs on Water Heater Replacement Costs
How Can I Save Money on Water Heater Replacement?
Choose a high-efficiency model based on the recommendation of your plumber and ensure you capitalize on the latest water heater rebates offered by B.C. Hydro.
How Long Does Water Heater Installation Take?
The entire water heater installation process shouldn’t take more than three hours. However, there can be complicating factors that impact installation time, including the age of your plumbing structure and the style of water heater you choose. When they provide a quote for your water heater, your plumber can also guide you on installation time.
How Do I Know If My Current Water Heater Requires Replacement?
The crucial signs you might consider replacing your water heater include:
- Your water heater is leaking
- Your water heater is loud (indicating sediment buildup)
- Your water is rust-coloured (indicating corrosion of the steel lining and the failure of the anode rod)
If your tank is actively leaking, don’t wait for a full replacement. Call our 24 hour plumber in Vancouver right away to help prevent water damage.
How Much Does Hot Water Tank Replacement Cost in Vancouver?
On average, expect around $1250 installed for an electric water heater and around $2200 installed for a natural gas model. The exact cost depends on tank size, fuel type, and installation complexity. Call Lew Plumbing & Heating for a free, accurate quote for your home.
Replace Your Water Heater with Lew Plumbing & Heating
With licensed gas fitters and proven plumbers backed by decades of water heater installation experience, Lew Plumbing & Heating is Vancouver’s leader in water heater replacement services. We also provide furnace repair in Vancouver and boiler repair in Burnaby, keeping your whole home’s heating and hot water running smoothly. Call our team today to request a visit with our plumbers to explore your water heater options!
