Compare Tankless Water Heater Installation Costs

When you want to have instant hot water or want to use the water in their home more efficiently, the installation of a tankless water heater may be the right answer.

If you have a tankless water heater installed in your home you can also save space by removing your bulky tank water heater that is constantly losing heat. With a tankless model, the water stays hot all the time and your utility bills may be lowered as much as 24% to 34% less, according to the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute.

Most often, tankless water heater installation is done by a plumber or HVAC contractor and most of the cost is based on what tankless water heater you want installed, as well as the complexity of the installation. On average, a tankless water heater can be installed in under 8 hours by a plumber and their apprentice. This job may take longer and additional fees will most likely be involved if there is extensive prep work that is needed or if there is a need for additional plumbing or pipes.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the tankless water heater installation processes and any special skills or tools you may need. The cost to install a tankless water heater could be affected by many different factors and we will help you understand more about those items and how to get cost savings.

Items Usually Included in Price Estimate

Tankless water heater installation estimates will usually include:

• The price of the tankless water heater
• Any supplies or special tools
• Delivery cost
• Labor costs
• Clean up after installation

A plumbing contractor will most likely use the table of supplies and tools listed below to install a tankless water heater.  This list is fairly extensive, but to be completely prepared you should probably have all of these on-hand if you want to try out a tankless water heater installation on your own.  You or your helper should have quite a bit of knowledge in plumbing and wiring before you try to do the job yourself.

• 2×4 boards
• Joist lumber
• Vent piping
• Thimbles
• Backboard
• 3/4″ copper water piping
• Soldering flux
• T-valve
• Stainless steel gas line with shut-off valve
• Reciprocating saw
• Emery cloth
• Torch

Factors that Effect Installation Costs

Your total tankless water heater cost can be effected by many factors.  If any modifications are needed in either the wiring or plumbing, there will be additional costs.  As an example, if you currently have a tank water heater in your utility closet where the pipes come in at the bottom of the wall, there may be a need to re-route piping so that the tankless can be installed where the water temperature is at its prime.  Installing the tankless in the correct location helps with the flow and speed of the water.

Other factors include:

• Cost to add or modify existing plumbing, electrical or HVAC systems
• How much prep work is needed
• If the installation will be in an area that is more difficult to reach
• Permit and inspection fees if needed
• Contractor availability

Save on Installation Costs!

Below is a short list of several ways you may be able to save money on the total cost of the installation of your new tankless water heater.  A plumbing contractor that specializes in this area and has a specific skill set would be your best bet when completing this project. Options to consider that may help you save a bit of money:

• Consider purchasing your tankless water heater online
• To deter any damage to finishes in your house, complete some basic prep work yourself
• After the project has been completed, take care of the cleanup yourself
• Dispose of your tank water heater

It is always best to call several plumbers or contractors to get quotes for your project. By following this step, you could significantly lower the installation cost of your tankless water heater. Educate yourself so you know what questions to ask in regards to the type of tankless water heater they recommend and the length of time it should take to complete the job. Make sure the contractor you choose is well versed with the skills that are needed for your project.

Learn More about Tankless Water Heater Installation

We’ve compiled a few links below where you can learn more about the processes used when installing a tankless water heater and how to get the best cost to install your tankless water heater.

YouTube – One of the best video tutorials about how to install a tankless water heater.

Houseneeds – Easy to follow instructions for installing a tankless water heater that includes; Site Inspection, Measuring for Vent Clearance, Hanging Backer Board and many other items.

Tankless Water Heater Reviews – Website devoted to explaining what a tankless water heater is, how it works and what type you need depending on your home or business.

We would love to hear more about your experience! If you have time, please consider emailing us some information about your tankless water heater installation cost.  Our user submission form is easy to use and we love the feedback!

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