- A smart home expert and strategist confirmed that installing Home Depot water heater costs at least $805 up to $1,554. The average cost for installing a water heater from a Home Depot could be $1,170, which may include the plumber’s labor and unit. (Source)
- The actual cost of installing water heaters will vary on the unit’s quality and brand. You also have to consider how reliable and efficient the system is, considering the number of people who would use the equipment. Other than that, the installation would also involve remodeling the part where the heater will be placed. So, you might need to think about the expense of having some slight renovations. (Source)
- If you are aiming for a tankless heater, it may cost you around $1,000-$3,000, depending on unit price, plumber’s labor, and all other factors involved. Although the heater itself only costs $300-$2,000, you still have to consider the plumber’s fee which could run up from $45 to $150 per hour. (Source)
- To have an idea about the estimated expense for your heater installation, you may use this Water Heater Installation Cost Calculator for free.
Cost Factors
Several factors may affect the price of installing a water heater from Home Depot. These cost factors include:
Heater Types
There are different types of heaters to think about when contemplating pricing.
Electric Heater vs. Gas Water Heater Pricing
For gas-fired systems, your heater’s cost can range from $100 to $200 more than the cost of electrical units. (Source)
An electrical tank is less expensive to buy and install compared to a gas tank. This is because a homeowner’s fifty-gallon water tank heater can be priced roughly around five hundred dollars ($500).
However, the overall expenses of its monthly consumption are much more expensive than a gas water heater. Although an electric tank’s heat source is safer than a gas tank, power outages can disable its functioning.
Oil-fired Warm Water Unit Prices
Oil-fired and propane water heaters can both be expensive. Both cost $1,000 to $3,000 for a unit only. These heater types are merely alternatives to gas and electric heaters and are typically used by people living off-grid. (Source)
Power Vent Heaters vs. Direct Vent Heaters
Power vents usually cost around $500 to $1,000 more than the direct vent system. Power venting typically adds $300 to $600 to the actual unit price. Also, you might need to add $300 to $500 for installing some electrical wiring.
Direct venting may cost $500 to $1,000 if you are converting electricity to gas. This entire operation system utilizes the idea that warm air ascends over its low-pressure surroundings.
Tankless vs. Tank
Tank heaters, which are best for residential purposes, cost lesser than the heaters designed for commercial purposes. Residential tanks hold lesser gallons of water, and its installation only costs around $820 to $1,290 for a 40-50 gallon capacity.
While these tanks are a cheaper option, they are not the most energy-efficient. This is because they constantly work to stabilize the standard tank temperature. So, families should expect a higher utility bill for this tank type.
Tankless Heaters are more practical and durable for commercial purposes since they last up to 20 years. Although they are more energy-efficient and hold more gallons of water, the initial cost is higher than the tank heaters.
Business owners should expect a price estimate of $1,200 to $3,500. The initial cost could be high because of the intensive labor setup needed during the installation of new water and gas lines. Since new electric wirings are required, it will be another additional set of expenses to be computed. (Source)
High-Efficiency Water Heaters
High-efficiency heaters may cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. This is inclusive of the unit and the plumber’s labor. These water heaters are anywhere around 100% to 300% more efficient compared to conventional heaters.
Labor Costs
The labor costs for installing standard water heaters may range from $150 to $800. Hiring a plumber can cost anywhere from $45 to $200 per hour, and the jobs can take 2 to 3 hours of work.
When it comes to installing electrical wires, hiring an electrician would cost you around $50 to $100 per hour for their labor.
Summing Up
It is best to speak directly with water heater installers to get an accurate idea of how much you will spend on your water heater installation. The installers will give you an accurate price depending on your home setup, unit preference, and your budget.

Hi, my name’s David. I started this pricing blog as a side project to help people figure out the best prices on common services. Whether you’re trying to figure out how much it costs to get scanning done at Staples or the expense to bleach short hair, more than likely I’ve blogged about it. Shoot me an email if you have any questions: david@mightyprice.com.