How often should I have my heat pump serviced?

You should have your heat pump serviced at least once a year. If you use your heat pump for heating and cooling, you should service it twice annually, in the fall and the spring.

What is the life span of a heat pump?

The average life span of a heat pump is 10-15 years. Because heat pumps run year-round to heat and cool your home, they don’t always last as long as a typical heating or cooling system. However, you can extend the life span by ensuring that your unit is routinely maintained by an HVAC professional.

How Much Does a Water Heater Cost? 9 Factors You Need to Know

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Last Revised: 10/29/2024 Is your water heater on its last leg, and you’re wondering how much replacing it will cost? Have you already been putting it off for months, or…years? While we might rarely think about that big cylinder thing in our basement, purchasing a new water heater is a big investment in our daily household lives. Our showers, dishwashers and washing machines are all made possible with this major appliance. But let’s face it, water heaters are pretty boring. Until they break down. When it’s time to replace yours, odds are you feel unprepared for the buying process. Seriously, does anyone really remember the last time they had to replace a water heater? It probably hasn’t crossed your mind since you first moved into your house. Don’t worry – we’re here to help.

—

The plumbing experts here at Mattioni help homeowners through their water heater replacement process almost every day. While it can be challenging to provide an exact price, there are a handful of factors that sway costs up or down. Taking the time to learn about these factors and educate yourself before moving forward with a plumbing installation company ensures two things: first, that you don’t overpay, and second, that you select a system that best fits your home’s hot water needs. In this article, we’ll walk you through the 9 factors that influence water heater costs, so you’ll be prepared to budget wisely. We’ll explain why each of them matters, not only in terms of upfront cost but also for your home’s hot water quality and utility expenses. By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to make a water heater selection that fits your budget and matches your needs.

What 9 Factors Influence Water Heater Installation Costs?

Here they are, all 9 variables that will determine how much your water heater investment will cost.

Water Heater Installation | Best Water Heater Company | Water Heater Cost | West Chester, PA

1. Choosing Which Type of Water Heater to Install

The first and biggest cost factor is the type of water heater you choose. This choice sets the stage for the rest of the decisions you’ll need to make. Each type of water heater comes with its own price range, functional advantages, and functional disadvantages. Here are the big three:

Standard Tank Type Water Heaters

Storage tank water heaters are the most common type and usually are the least expensive option upfront. They store a set amount of hot water and continuously heat it to keep it ready for use. They are less efficient than tankless and hybrid water heaters, meaning you’ll pay a bit more on utility bills. Opting for a standard tank-type water heater is a good way to lower installation costs, however your long-term associated costs will be higher.

Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters (also called hybrid water heaters) use electricity and refrigerant to move heat from ambient indoor air to the water, making them incredibly efficient. They’re more expensive than standard tank water heaters, but slightly less expensive than tankless. Heat pump water heaters are considered by many master plumbers to be the superior option of the three. Their top-of-class energy efficiency means more money is put back in your pocket, without any drop in quality. They do require access to your basement’s air supply (meaning they can’t be tucked away in a closet or in your attic), which is a minor drawback considering the long-term cost savings they offer. To give you an idea of the price range, a 50-gallon heat pump water heater costs about $5,000 for VIP members at Mattioni. Heat pump water heaters are a relatively new option that’s gaining popularity and are expected to become commonplace in the future.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are the most expensive upfront option and are known for their high energy efficiency, endless hot water supply, and small spatial footprint. They aren’t quite as energy efficient as hybrid water heaters but are still between 96-97% efficient, meaning they’ll also give you ongoing savings on utility bills. At Mattioni, a tankless water heater costs roughly $7,000 for our members. Tankless systems require a gas fuel source, so you’ll have to rely on either propane or natural gas, which can add costs if you’re converting from oil. Tankless water heaters can last 15-18 years with annual maintenance.

2. Which Tank Size & Tank Material is Right for You?

For standard tank-type and heat pump water heaters, the size of your tank is going to directly impact costs.

10-gallon tanks are typically ideal for things like under-sink units or point of use applications.

30-gallon tanks serve smaller homes or homes with lower hot water demands.

40-gallon and 50-gallon tanks are standard for more homes, including family homes.

60-gallon to 100-gallon tanks are found in some homes with large square footage, large families, or specific hot water needs.

When evaluating tank sizes, be sure to consider that you can rely on about 70% of the tank for quality hot water at one time, as cold water begins to mix in the tank after you turn on your hot water. What material your tank is made of also affects the cost and longevity of a water heater.

Steel Tanks: standard, durable, and common, though potentially prone to corrosion over time. Expected lifespan of 10 years with proper maintenance.

Plastic Tanks: Corrosion-resistant and lighter, though often more expensive than steel tanks. Expected lifespan of 20 years with proper maintenance. Many plastic tank units (like the Rheem Marathon) include a lifetime warranty, meaning you’ll never pay for a water heater again.

Right about now you may be thinking to yourself, what about tankless water heaters? I mean, they’re…tankless. Things like tank size and tank material can’t apply to tankless water heaters. This is where flow rate joins the conversation.

Tankless Water Heater Installation | Best Tankless Water Heater Company | Tankless Water Heater Cost | West Chester, PA

3. How Flow Rate Affects Installation Costs of a Tankless Water Heater

When it comes to tankless water heaters, installation costs are influenced by their flow rate, or how many gallons per minute they can supply simultaneously. And, you guessed it, the higher the flow rate, the more the unit will cost. It’s important to remember that tankless water heaters provide endless hot water, but not unlimited hot water. It’s tricky, I know. All that means is that if, for some reason, you simultaneously have more than two hot showers, your washing machine, and dishwasher all running at the same time, you could potentially run into a drop off in hot water quality. We’ve found that this almost never happens. But, if you have any worries about this, tankless water heaters can be installed in parallel with each other, meaning you can add a second unit to keep up with even the highest levels of hot water needs.

4. Choosing a Fuel Type for Your Water Heater

The fuel source used to power your water heater is a significant variable, as it affects not just installation costs, but also the long-term operational savings you’ll see from your system.

Oil Water Heaters

These days, oil-fired water heaters are becoming less and less common. They entail more regular maintenance and experience lower efficiency levels. They’re more expensive to install, but they do support higher levels of hot water demands better than other some other fuel sources. In other words, they recover hot water faster, but you’ll pay more on utilities.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters (propane or natural gas) usually cost less than oil systems and hybrid systems. 50-Gallon Natural Gas & Propane Chimney Units costs about $3,500 for Mattioni members The exception to this is tankless water heaters (which are also fueled by natural gas or propane and cost about $8,000 for Mattioni members).

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are among the least expensive to install (a 50-gallon electric unit can be bought for about $2,600 at Mattioni). But bear in mind that homeowners who opt for an electric unit should expect much higher energy expenses.

Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heaters

When it comes to price by fuel source, hybrid water heaters are near the top of the list (a 50-gallon heat pump water heater costs about $6,000 for Mattioni members).

5. Why the Efficiency of Your Water-Heater Matters

Like fuel type, the efficiency of your water heater plays a critical role in both upfront costs and long-term savings. The Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) measures how efficiently a water heater converts energy into hot water. The higher the UEF, the more energy-efficient the water heater is. UEF gives us some context as to just how much more efficient the leading systems are:

A Navien tankless water heater (which is much more efficient than standard tank types) has a UEF of 0.97

A 50-gallon Rheem hybrid water heater has a UEF of 3.75

Think of your water heater’s UEF like your car’s miles-per-gallon rating. The higher the MPG, the more efficiently your car uses fuel. Similarly, a higher UEF means your water heater uses less energy to heat the same amount of water, saving you money on utility bills over time. Just like you’d prefer a car that gets more miles per gallon, you probably want a water heater that gives you more hot water for less energy.

6. Do You have a Functional Chimney?

Homes without a chimney that’s still in good enough condition to operate are likely to require a power-vent system, which usually comes at a higher cost. To find out if this applies to you, look for a metal pipe extending from the top of your water heater that heads towards your chimney. If you have this pipe, you’re set up for another chimney system. If this pipe is made of PVC and not metal, it means that you already have a power-vent system and will need to purchase a similar unit. Power-vent systems are gas-only water heaters, meaning you’ll need to stick with either natural gas or propane as your fuel source.

7. What Additional Features and Optional Add-ons Have to Offer

At the time of purchase, you’ll have the option to include some extra features that can enhance your water heater and household experience in different ways. Many homeowners find these features worth the investment, particularly those who value improved performance, safety, and convenience.

Thermal Expansion Tank | Best Water Heater Installation Company | Downingtown, PA

Thermal Expansion Tanks

Expansion tanks are a necessity with many water heaters but are still technically an additional item. When water increases in temperature, it expands and that extra pressure needs somewhere to safely move into. The thermal expansion tank absorbs this pressure and prevents tank damage. Additional costs are typically minimal, and they can be essential to long-term safety and system health.

Water Heater Pans & Leak Breaker Valve

Installing a pan underneath your water heater is a great way to collect any small leakage (rather than spilling onto your floor) and provide diagnostics to potential issues when they come up. It’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective long-term investments to make, as it can alert you to any small leak before it becomes a massive problem that causes water damage to your entire basement. A leak breaker valve is another useful safety feature that works together with the pan and shuts off the cold-water supply if it detects a leak. Together, a pan and leak breaker can prevent potentially devastating basement flooding.

Hot Water Recirculation Systems

Hot water recirculation systems reduce the time you wait for hot water to reach your faucet. These systems are an additional expense but save water and improve convenience throughout your household.

8. How Your Home’s Location Impacts Installation Costs

While this factor is out of your control, it still plays a part in determining the average expected costs of a water heater installation. Urban and suburban homeowners should expect to pay more than those in rural areas, as the costs of all goods and services are typically higher in those areas.

9. The Complexity of Your Installation Matters

If your water heater is to be installed in a tight corner of your home or your attic, there’s the possibility of increased costs due to the added complexity of the job. On the other hand, if it’s going to be hooked up in an open area of your basement then it should be a straightforward installation, and you shouldn’t run into any additional costs.

Other Pricing Considerations to Make: Rebates & Tax Credits

Homeowners installing a high-efficiency water heater, most notably your hybrid heat pump option, may be entitled to rebates and tax credits made available by local utility companies and the federal government. When evaluating the pricing of different systems, be sure to factor these rebates and tax credits into your decision as they can offset some of the installation costs

What’s the Total Expected Cost of a Water Heater?

As you can see, there are several factors that cause your specific costs to go up or down. As you start to make decisions about which water heater is best for you, you’ll start to get a good sense of what you can expect to pay. At the broadest level, you could pay anywhere from $2,500 to $7,500 for your new water heater. Generally, traditional steel tank water heaters will fall at the low end of this range, while heat pump and tankless systems are at the high end.

HVAC System Lifespan | HVAC Consultation

The Importance of Quality Installation and Routine Maintenance

No matter what type of water heater you choose for your home, properly vetting your installation company and moving forward with an experienced professional is of the utmost importance. Small installation problems, such as a thermal expansion tank not being properly supported, can turn into major issues in time. By choosing an expert plumber to install your system, you’ll have peace of mind that your system will function properly for years to come. Regular maintenance is also of great significance as it can sustain efficiency levels while prolonging the lifespan of the water heater and preventing a plumbing emergency like flooding. You should have a professional tune-up every 12-18 months, depending on the hardness of your water.

Making the Right Water Heater Choice for Your Home

Now that you understand the key factors that influence water heater installation costs, you’re in a strong position to make an informed decision that fits both your budget and your household’s needs. Whether you’re considering a more budget-friendly standard tank system or investing in a high-efficiency hybrid or tankless option, each choice comes with its own trade-offs in terms of upfront costs, long-term savings, and space requirements. What are your next steps? The next step is to carefully evaluate your home’s hot water demands and determine which system offers the best balance of efficiency, performance, and affordability. Don’t forget that rebates and tax credits may help offset the cost, especially for high-efficiency models like heat pump water heaters. Above all, selecting a qualified installation professional is crucial to ensure your water heater runs safely and efficiently for years to come. Skimping on proper installation or maintenance could lead to unexpected expenses down the road. Regular maintenance will also protect your investment and keep your system running smoothly. Your water heater is an essential part of your home, so take the time to make a well-informed decision that will meet your needs both now and in the future. When you’re ready, contact the team at Mattioni Plumbing at (610) 400-8510 to discuss the best water heater options for your home and get a personalized estimate. With expert advice and professional installation, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home will have reliable hot water for years to come.