How much does it cost to install a 40 gallon water heater

July 2022

Item details Qty Low   High
Water Heater Cost 
Non-discounted retail pricing for: 40 gallon gas water heater. Tank type with 40,000 BTU rating. 9 yr warranty.
1 heater $737.02 $828.56
Hot Water Heater Replacement Labor, Basic 
Basic labor to replace hot water heater with favorable site conditions. Replace tank type gas water heater. Level and secure new unit. Connect to existing gas, water and vent lines and leak test. Connection kit included. Includes planning, equipment and material acquisition, area preparation and protection, setup and cleanup.
1 heater $737.02 $828.56
Hot Water Heater Replacement Job Supplies 
Cost of related materials and supplies typically required to replace hot water heater including: connectors, fittings and mounting hardware.
1 heater $737.02 $828.56
Water Heater Debris Disposal
Costs to load and haul away old materials, installation waste and associated debris.
1 heater 23.625 26.875
  Unused Minimum Labor
Balance of 2 hr(s) minimum labor charge that can be applied to other tasks.
     
Totals - Cost To Replace Hot Water Heater      
Average Cost per Heater    

Custom Calculators with Homewyse Lists

Service Professionals: create a reusable estimating app that is 100% customized to your business. Start with a template or build your own (free; Account sign up required):

For a basic project in zip code 47474 with 1 heater, the cost to Replace a Hot Water Heater starts at $1,408 - $1,634 per heater. Actual costs will depend on job size, conditions, and options.

To estimate costs for your project:

1. Set Project Zip Code Enter the Zip Code for the location where labor is hired and materials purchased.

2. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of "items" required for the project.

3. Re-calculate Click the "Update" button.




Unit Costs: How Pros Price

Unlike other websites that publish pricing from unrelated jobs in the past, Homewyse creates up-to-date estimates from current Unit Costs. The Unit Cost method delivers high accuracy by using location, details and options for the unique requirements of each job. Contracting, trade, design and maintenance businesses rely on the Unit Cost method for transparency, accuracy and fair profits.


Cost to Replace a Hot Water Heater - Notes and General Information

These estimates are for BASIC work performed in serviceable conditions by qualified trade professionals using MID GRADE materials. Work not mentioned on this page and/or work using master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS! Explore the full range of gas hot water heater new installation labor options and material prices here.

These estimates are NOT substitutes for written quotes from trade professionals. Homewyse strongly recommends that you contact reputable professionals for accurate assessments of work required and costs for your project - before making any decisions or commitments.

The cost estimate includes:

  • Costs for local material / equipment delivery to and service provider transportation to and from the job site.
  • Costs to prepare the worksite for Hot Water Heater Replacement, including costs to protect existing structure(s), finishes, materials and components.
  • Labor setup time, mobilization time and minimum hourly charges that are commonly included for small Hot Water Heater Replacement jobs.

The cost estimate does NOT include:

  • Costs for removing, relocating, repairing, or modifying existing framing, surfacing, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems - or bringing those systems into compliance with current building codes.
  • Costs for testing and remediation of hazardous materials (asbestos, lead, etc.).
  • General contractor overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the Hot Water Heater Replacement. Add 13% to 22% to the total cost above if a general contractor will supervise this project.
  • Sales tax on materials and supplies.
  • Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project.

References - Hot Water Heater Replacement

  • Product and Supplies Data: Faucet Direct Plumbing Fixtures and Supplies Faucet Direct, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Kitchen Source Plumbing Products and Supplies Kitchen Source, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Plumbers Stock Products and Supplies Plumbers Stock, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Lowes Plumbing Products and Supplies Lowes , Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Plumbing Components and Supplies McCoys, Jul 2022, Website
  • The HUD PATH Rehab Guide Volume 8: HVAC/Plumbing U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Policy Development and Research, Mar 2011, Editorial Staff
  • The Building Estimator's Reference Book , Mar 2012,
  • Home Improvement 1-2-3: Expert Advice from The Home Depot Homer, TLC, Jul 2022, Editorial Staff, ISBN 696213273
  • Carpentry and Building Construction, Student Text Glencoe/McGraw-Hill; 6th edition, Jan 2003, Mark Feirer, John Feirer, ISBN 007822702X
  • Labor Wages and Costs: CPWAR Construction Cost Book The Center for Construction Research and Training, Jul 2022, Staff
  • Project Spending Data: Harvard University JCHS Homeowner Expenditures Harvard University, Jul 2022, Website

Hot Water Heater Replacement Budget Management

How much does it cost to install a 40 gallon water heater

This infographic highlights decisions and site issues that can cause large cost variances in the typical Hot Water Heater Replacement budget.


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How much does it cost to install a 40 gallon water heater

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Why is installing a water heater so expensive?

The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For electrical tankless heaters, new electric wiring will need to be installed.

How long does it take to install a 40 gallon hot water heater?

WATER HEATER INSTALLATION PROCESS If there are no issues or complications, a licensed plumber should be able to complete the process in 2-3 hours.

How many people does a 40 gallon water heater support?

Typically, the rule-of-thumb is that you want a 40 gallon tank for 1 to 4 people, a 50 gallon tank for 4 to 6 people, and a 50 gallon high recovery or 75 gallon tank for 6 to 8 people. Energy consumption for 40 and 50 gallon standard water heaters is quite comparable.

What is the average lifespan of a 40 gallon hot water heater?

Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about eight to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.