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Water heater replacement cost (2026)
Use the calculator: system type, size, install conditions, permits, and market for a tighter installed total.
Last updated: August 2026
Cost calculator
Tap each row. Use the ? if a term is unclear — some words are contractor jargon.
Electric tank · 40 gal / compact · Like-for-like swap · Basic permit + haul · Lower-cost area
$1,050–$1,970 installed total
$1,050 – $1,970U.S. ballpark for the filters above — get local bids to confirmWater heater prices confuse people because “unit cost” and “installed cost” get mixed together. Big-box shelf prices look low; a permitted install with haul-away, expansion tank, drip pan, and code updates does not. Filter by system type first — electric tank and heat pump are not the same job.
Tank, tankless, and heat pump
Standard tanks remain the cheapest path when the existing hookups match. Gas tanks need proper venting and gas sizing. Tankless units save space and can cut standby loss, but they often need larger gas lines or dedicated electric service. Heat pump water heaters (hybrid) cost more upfront and need space and condensate drainage, yet they can earn rebates in some states.
What pushes an install higher
- Switching fuel types (electric ↔ gas) or moving the unit to a new closet.
- Pan, drain, seismic straps, expansion tank, and permit fees.
- Panel upgrades for tankless electric or some heat-pump models.
- Same-day emergency replacement vs scheduled swap.
Tick the system type, size band, and install condition above. The total narrows to a planning range for that configuration. Brand promotions (Rheem, Bradford White, AO Smith, and others) still vary week to week — use local quotes to finalize.