Water Heater Replacement Cost Estimator
Pick the heater type and size for installed replacement pricing.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Water heater = unit + install, then energy × life:
- Tank (~$1,400–1,900): cheapest now, 10–12 year life, standby heat loss 24/7.
- Tankless (~$2,800–4,200): endless hot water, 20-year life, needs gas line or big electrical upgrade.
- Heat pump (~$2,400–3,300): 2–3x more efficient than tank — lowest running cost, needs 700+ cu ft of air space.
- Lifetime math: a cheap tank + 11 years of energy often exceeds a tankless — compare lifetime, not sticker.
- Sizing: 1–2 people: 40 gal / small tankless; 3–4: 50 gal; 5+: 75 gal or high-flow tankless.
- Proactive replacement: tanks die at 10–12 years — replacing on your schedule beats replacing after a flood.
Frequently asked questions
How much does water heater replacement cost?
Tank ~$1,400–1,900, heat pump ~$2,400–3,300, tankless ~$2,800–4,200 installed.
Tank vs tankless?
Tankless: 2x upfront, 2x life, endless hot water, lower energy. Tank: cheap now, 10–12 yr life. Lifetime costs are close.
What is a heat pump water heater?
It moves heat from surrounding air instead of generating it — 2–3x more efficient than a tank, ~$2,400–3,300 installed.
How long do water heaters last?
Tank 10–12 yrs, heat pump 13–15, tankless ~20 yrs.
What size do I need?
1–2 people: 40 gal; 3–4: 50 gal; 5+: 75 gal or a high-flow tankless unit.
Should I replace before it fails?
Yes — tanks fail by leaking. Replacing at 10–12 years on your schedule beats emergency replacement after water damage.
Does tankless need special install?
Yes — gas tankless needs a larger gas line and special venting; electric needs heavy amperage. That's in the price.
Are there tax credits?
Heat pump water heaters often qualify for federal tax credits (30%, up to $2,000) — check current rules.
Why is my energy bill high?
Water heating is ~20% of home energy. An aging tank or high setpoint (above 120°F) wastes money.
What temperature should I set?
120°F — hot enough for comfort, cool enough to save energy and prevent scalding.