If you’re standing in a cold shower, or you just found a puddle around the bottom of your water heater, you’re probably wondering what a new one is going to cost. We think you should know that before you call, so we post our prices.
A standard 40-gallon electric water heater replacement (not in the attic) is $2,850 before taxes. That price includes the expansion tank, an atmospheric vacuum breaker and two new flexible water supply connections. It comes with our 1-year parts and labor warranty, and manufacturer coverage is typically 6 years, depending on the brand and model. You can see every water heater price we’ve published on our prices page.
Signs your water heater is on its way out
Water heaters usually give some warning before they fail completely. Watch for these:
- Water pooling around the base of the tank, or rust stains on the floor
- Rusty or brown hot water, while the cold water looks clear
- Popping, rumbling or banging sounds when the heater runs
- Hot water that runs out much faster than it used to
- A tank that’s more than 10 years old (the date is usually on the label)
- A relief valve that drips or keeps opening
A little noise can mean sediment buildup, which a flush may fix. A leak from the tank itself can’t be repaired, and it can go from a drip to a flood without much notice.
San Antonio’s hard water and your water heater
Most San Antonio tap water comes from the Edwards Aquifer, which runs through limestone. That makes our water hard. When hard water heats up, the minerals drop out and settle at the bottom of the tank as scale and sediment. Over time that layer insulates the water from the burner or elements, so the heater runs longer, makes noise and wears out sooner.
That’s why we recommend a yearly flush, and why a lot of our customers pair a new water heater with a water softener. It’s also why every install we do includes an expansion tank, because the pressure on a lot of San Antonio water lines runs on the high side.
Gas or electric, garage or closet
We replace both gas and electric tank water heaters in 40 and 50 gallon sizes, from brands including Rheem, Navien and other manufacturers. Gas installs include a new flexible gas connection, and we check the venting and the gas shut-off while we’re there. If you’re thinking about going tankless, we install tankless water heaters too, and we’ll give you an honest take on whether it makes sense for your household.
Straight answers from the owner
If another company has already told you what you need, Tito is glad to give you a second opinion. He’ll look at your setup, tell you what he sees, and give you options. If your heater just needs a new part, he’ll say so. If it’s time to replace it, you’ll know the full price before any work starts.