Home Depot is a popular retailer known for its wide range of home improvement products and services, including water heater installations. However, finding clear information about their pricing can be a struggle, as there are multiple factors to consider.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how much Home Depot charges to install a water heater. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for affordable options or simply curious about the costs involved, we have you covered.
Installation Cost
A water heater installation from Home Depot cost between $1200 to $3000 with an average of $2,000. This includes labor, unit, materials, and permits. The installation will be done by a local licensed plumber with insurance, and Home Depot offers a satisfaction guarantee.
| Water Heater Type | Installation Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tank Water Heaters | $500 – $3000 | $1750 |
| Tankless Water Heaters | $1000 – $3500 | $2250 |
| Point-of-Use Water Heaters | $400 – $2000 | $1200 |
| Smart Water Heaters | $1500 – $3500 | $2500 |
| Under Sink Water Heaters | $200 – $300 | $250 |
| Solar Heaters | $3000 – $4000 | $3500 |
Tank water heaters (gas & electric) Installation $500-$3000
- Available in various sizes, from 20 to 80 gallons
- Electric or gas element heats the water within the tank
Tankless water heaters (gas & electric) Installation $1000-$3500
- No storage tank
- Electric or gas element heats the water as it enters the home through pipes
Point-of-use water heaters Installation $400-$2000
- Provides hot water at specific locations within a home (kitchen sink, shower)
- Convenient for college students who may only need hot water in certain areas
Smart water heaters Installation $1500-$3500
- Uses smart technology
- Can be controlled remotely using a phone
- Energy-saving features help reduce utility bills
Under sink water heaters Installation $200-$300
- Fits under the sink
- Provides instant hot water
- Preheats water as it passes through pipes and stores a small amount of hot water
Solar heaters Installation $3000-$4000
- Harnesses the power of the sun
- Provides hot water for the entire household without using electricity
- Environmentally friendly option for college students.
Choosing Water Heater Brand
Rheem and AO Smith are the most popular and reliable water heater brands according to consumer reviews and industry experts. Both brands consistently receive high ratings for their durability, performance, and customer satisfaction.
Electric or Gas Water Heaters
Electric heaters are generally easier to install as they do not require additional fixtures like chimneys. However, gas heaters tend to have lower operational costs.
Home Depot Water Heater Return Policy
You can return a water heater to Home Depot within 90 days of purchase for a full refund or exchange. Make sure to bring the receipt or a copy of the shipping confirmation email, the credit card used for the purchase, and a valid ID.
Installation Price Comparison
It is recommended to get quotes from multiple vendors. In the meantime, here is a breakdown of how much it will cost to have your water heater installed by various parties.
Nationally, the cost of labor to install a water heater can range from $200-$1,000. Additionally, the water heater itself will cost between $330 and $2,000. Together, the cost of installing a brand-new water heater will typically be around $600 – $3,000 dollars. Additionally, you will need to pay for a building permit, which will vary by locality.
Other home improvement retailers such as Lowe’s also offer installation services. For a basic installation, not including the cost of the unit, Lowe’s will charge between $275 and $600 for installation and delivery. With Lowe’s budget an additional $228 – $2,500 for the water heater itself. In total, a water heater installation through Lowe’s will cost between $500 and $3,100.
| Installer | Low-End | Average | High-End |
| Home Depot | $1,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| Lowe’s | $500 | $1,150 | $1,800 |
| Local Contractor | $800 | $2,000 | $2,200 |
| DIY | $800 | $1,900 | $3,000 |
This table demonstrates that on average, the cost of an installation will fall between $1,000-$2,000 across all contractors. While it may be tempting to cut costs through DIY, installing a water heater involves electrical and plumbing work that may be dangerous. Additionally, having a properly installed water heater can save money in the long term by ensuring the job is done right.
To that end, Lowe’s and local contractors are generally cheaper than Home Depot, but ultimately you will want to ensure the job is done right. Be sure to properly vet your contractor to make sure the job is completed satisfactorily. Beyond that, large companies like Lowe’s and Home Depot may have promotional rates that can save money – so be sure to get a quote.
Installation Cost Factors
There are many variables that account for the cost of installing a water heater. Primarily, there are four main considerations that will impact the cost of an installation job:
- Cost of the Unit
- Basic Installation
- Permit Charges
- Bringing the System Up to Code
A water heater can cost as low as $300 and as high as $2,000. The cost will depend on the size and type of water heater. For example, a large tank water heater will be more expensive, and tankless water heaters tend to be more expensive overall.
For larger families and households with 6 people, 55-gallon tanks are recommended while a smaller, 23 gallon tank can be used for couples. Tankless water heaters tend to be more expensive but are more energy-efficient over the long term. A Home Depot consultant can help you select the right water heater for your house.
Installation Process
After setting up a free consultation to set up a quote and plan, the consultant will schedule the installation date. The installation will include the following features
- Delivery of new unit
- Disconnect and remove of old unit
- Set up the new unit
- Connect new heater and ensure it is up to code
- Leak and cycle testing
- Final Inspection
- Clean up all debris and installation materials
Home Depot also offers same-day consultation and installation if you live within 30 miles of Home Depot. To schedule a same-day installation, you’ll need to call by 12 pm during the work week (Monday-Friday). The work completed by Home Depot comes with a three-year labor warranty.
Why Hire Home Depot
- Expertise: Home Depot has a team of professionals who are trained and experienced in installing hot water heaters. They have the necessary knowledge and skills to do the job correctly.
- Convenience: By hiring Home Depot, you can avoid the hassle of searching for a qualified installer on your own. They will handle all aspects of the installation process, including delivery, removal of the old unit, and any necessary permits.
- Warranty: Home Depot typically offers warranty options on their installations. This can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that if any issues arise with the installation, you can rely on Home Depot to rectify them.
- Availability: Home Depot has a wide network of stores across the country, which makes it more likely that you can find an installer in your area. This means you won’t have to wait too long to get the hot water heater installed.
Why Not Hire Home Depot
- Cost: Home Depot’s installation services may be more expensive compared to hiring an independent contractor. While the convenience they offer is valuable, it may come at a higher price.
- Limited options: When hiring Home Depot, you are restricted to the brands and models they carry. If you have specific preferences or want a particular brand that is not available at Home Depot, you may need to explore other options.
- Quality of service: While Home Depot has a team of professionals, the quality of service may vary depending on the specific installer assigned to your project. If you have any concerns, it may be challenging to directly communicate with the installer or request a specific individual.
- Scheduling: Home Depot’s installation services may have limited availability, especially during peak seasons. This could result in delays in getting your hot water heater installed, particularly if you have an urgent need.
Free Consultation From Home Depot
You can request a free consultation on water heater installation from Home Depot by phone, in-store, or online. Home Depot will ask about your current water heater setup and suggest options based on your budget and needs. They will also schedule a free in-home consultation and site inspection to provide a final quote for you to review.
