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Who Can Install a Water Heater In Your Home?
A water heater installation professional or a licensed plumber can install a water heater
Photo: Minerva Studio / ShutterStock Photography
Photo: Minerva Studio / ShutterStock Photography
Highlights
Hiring a pro answers who can install a water heater safely and legally, including permit needs and code compliance.
Expect total installation costs of $900 to $1,800; some projects run several thousand dollars depending on the design.
Labor runs $150 to $450, with variations based on complexity and scope.
Type, size, and fuel source affect pricing; larger capacity and advanced systems cost more.
Pros protect warranties, remove the old unit, connect fuel and plumbing, and test operation.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you are asking who can install a water heater, hire a water heater installation professional or a licensed plumber. These pros obtain required permits, follow local code, and connect electric or natural gas safely. Some manufacturers require certified installers to keep warranties valid, and municipalities may limit permits to licensed pros only.
Benefits of Hiring a Water Heater Installation Professional
A dedicated water heater installation professional is the safest, most reliable choice. These specialists recommend the right size and type, remove your old unit, and make proper fuel and plumbing connections. They help preserve manufacturer warranties and comply with local codes and permits. You get a turnkey experience—from delivery to final testing—so your system runs correctly from day one.
Recommends correct size and design for your household
Removes existing water heater safely and cleanly
Delivers and carries the new unit to location
Connects electric or gas fuel source properly
Integrates with plumbing without leaks or damage
Obtains permits when required by local rules
Follows all local water heater code requirements
Maintains manufacturer warranty with certified installation
Stocks and sells units for faster setup
Tests operation before leaving your home
Can I Hire a Plumber for Installing a Water Heater?
Yes. You can hire a licensed plumber to install a water heater. Plumbers have the licenses, certifications, and skills to complete the job safely and correctly. They may not focus on water heaters exclusively like a specialist, but they handle most installations well. This makes a plumber a sound choice when you need proper fuel and plumbing connections without taking on a risky DIY project. If you want to ensure the job is done right and up to code, you might want to consider hiring a local plumber for your installation.
How Do Water Heater Installation Experts Install Water Heaters?
Pros follow a clear process that covers permits, sizing, delivery, safe hookups, and testing. Expect these steps:
Obtain required permits
Recommend the right size and design
Deliver the appliance and carry it to the install site
Disconnect and remove the existing unit
Connect the new unit to the proper fuel source (electric or gas)
Connect the appliance to your plumbing
How Much Does Installing a Water Heater Cost?
Installing a water heater with a pro costs $900 to $1,800 for the appliance and labor. Type drives price: tank-style costs $600 to $2,500, tankless costs $1,400 to $3,900, heat pump costs $1,200 to $3,500, and solar costs $1,800 to $5,700. Some installations run several thousand dollars or more. Labor ranges from $150 to $450, with fuel type and capacity influencing your total.
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