How much should a new 30 gallon water heater w/ installation cost?
Water heaters come for either electric or gas hookups. The tank-style heaters are further distinguished by their warranty period (6, 9 and 12 years are common). For a time, Home Depot was offering a lifetime warranty on one model, but I’m not sure if they have that promotion anymore. The warranty period of the heater usually dictates the types of construction and insulation the model has. The higher the warranty, the higher quality parts, more features (like auto-flush), and subsequently, a higher price tag. Figure between $150 – $350 for the heater, plus about $200 more for installation. Make sure your install includes hauling away of the old unit (they tend to be heavy with built-up sediment). Tankless water heaters are a new option that offers continuous hot water on demand. These models are also offered in electric or gas, and some models qualify for a tax rebate for their energy efficiency ratings. For more information on which heaters qualify for the credit, visit:
