There comes a time when your water heater has to be replaced.
When should you do it? And most importantly, how much does it cost?
Before we get to that, let’s see why you should choose a gas unit over an electric one, and what can impact the cost of your gas water heater replacement in Calgary.
Why Choose Gas Water Heaters Over Electric?
While gas water heaters are typically more expensive initially, they tend to be cheaper in the long-term.
A study by Smarterhouse shows that over a 13-year cycle, no-pilot ($4,560), conventional ($5,394), condensing ($5,408), and high-efficient ($5,220) gas heaters cost less than electrical water heaters ($6,528 to $6,769 depending on the model).
Home Advisor backs this claim up, stating that the cost over a 12-year lifespan was $6,250 for electrical models and $5,000 for gas.
Other benefits include a longer lifespan, fewer water heater repairs, operation during power outages, and less time to reheat the water. However, gas models are not as energy efficient as electric units.
What Affects The Water Heater Installation Cost in Calgary?
There are several important considerations when deciding which gas water heater you should purchase for your home: model, brand, complexity, and labour. Each of these will have an impact on the final cost of your installation.
Tankless vs Tank
Tankless options are the more expensive choice for sustainability and value, as water is provided by on-demand needs instead of tank heaters, which stores them. Depending on how you want your unit to operate, it will impact your choice. It will also impact the way it is installed, thereby affecting the price.
The Brand
The likes of A.O. Smith, Rheem, and Bradford White are considered the top choices for gas water heaters, so it makes sense that they would cost more than other brands. There are, however, cheaper, lesser-known brands. The decision you choose will affect the installation costs, as it could mean the difference between a simple connection or an hours-long job.
Location of the Installation
Depending on where you want your water heater, it will impact the installation’s overall cost. It might require the Calgary plumber to put in extra work, use special tools, or apply a unique approach to get it done. This process will also include the removal of the old unit.
Labor Cost To Install Water Heater
Calgary plumbers will charge per hour or job (click here to see how much Calgary plumbers charge), depending on their rates and value. As such, you should expect to pay a little extra if the plumber is more experienced, more professional, and can deliver the service you want. It’s a worthwhile investment, as that means the job is done the first time correctly.
The Cost of Gas Water Heater Installation in Calgary
According to Home Guide, the “cost to install a new water heater ranges from $400 to $900 for a 40 to 50-gallon tank, and between $1,470 and $2,510 for a tankless”.
Home Advisor backs this claim up, stating that “a water heater costs $804 and $1,548, or an average of $1,162, include the unit and labor”, but also note that “plumber labor runs $45 to $150 per labour.
As previously stated, many factors can influence the cost of the installation. Ideally, it is best to research and speak to a plumber who can provide you with the best value and workmanship for your installation.
Calgary Plumber and Drains is your number one team of Calgary plumbers! Our success has been built on values such as honesty, hard work, affordable prices and superior customer service. We pride ourselves on offering clients throughout Downtown and surrounding areas with top-quality plumbing services, including leak repairs, installations, sewer and drain cleaning, toilet repairs, and water heater repairs in Calgary. As an emergency plumber in Calgary, we’re available when you’re in dire straits! For the number one plumbing company in Calgary, contact Calgary Plumber and Drains at 403-629-2920.