5 Tips To Save On Water Heater Installation

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Tips To Save On Water Heater Installation | water heater tank

March 5th, 2021 JPSTX

Hello and welcome to Jennings Plumbing Services Blog Page! Today we are going to go over 5 quick and easy ways to save money on water heater installation and repairs. When your water heater goes out, which is only a matter of time, sometimes it can be catastrophic and cause tons of damage to your home or property. Not only will we go over ways to save on water heater installation near you, but we will also cover some basic need to know information about the future of water heater technology and some of the improvements that can save you money over time.

Tip One: Save Up to 30% on Water Heater Installation by Purchasing Your Own Unit

The easiest way to save a good bit of cash on your next water heater installation is to buy your own water heater new from a place like Home Depot, Lowes or a local Plumbing Supply store like Pittman Supply Company in Carrollton. Most plumbing companies will tack on about 30% to the cost of the physical water heater. Bypass this cost directly by purchasing your own water heater prior to calling a plumber to perform your water heater installation. In fact, if you really want to save money then you should try to get all of the necessary materials yourself prior to the water heater installation.

Bonus Tip: Many times when you replace your water heater you have to perform upgrades on the unit to meet new local municipal code requirements. This is especially applicable in places like Dallas, TX and the surrounding areas. Most professional plumbers are aware of these requirements and if you call them out to do an initial inspection of the water heater prior to installation they will give you a bid for the job that includes all of the necessary parts for these upgrades as line items. Be sure to get a copy of this to make getting the necessary materials before hand even easier and so that you can save EVEN MORE MONEY! You’ll thank me later.

What are the Costs and Features of Installing a Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater?

Installing a hybrid heat pump water heater is an investment that not only provides hot water efficiently but also offers significant savings over time. Here’s a detailed look into the costs and features associated with these units.

Installation Costs

Nationwide, the installation of a hybrid heat pump water heater generally ranges from $2,500 to $5,000. This estimate covers everything you need for a smooth installation:

The heat pump water heater itself: The core component.
Permits: Necessary for compliance with local regulations.
Materials and labor: Carried out by a certified, insured plumber.
Old unit disposal: Removal of your existing water heater.

Factors Impacting Cost

Size of the Unit: Larger units naturally come with a higher price tag. They may also boast additional features that add to the cost.
Installation Upgrades: If the area where the heater will be installed needs updates to meet local codes, this could increase overall expenses.
Government Incentives: To encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technology, rebates and federal tax credits are available. These are valuable in offsetting some of the initial costs. Always check with utility companies for any local rebates.

Energy Efficiency and Savings

Hybrid heat pump water heaters stand out for their energy efficiency. Instead of generating heat directly, they transfer heat from the air, making them about three times more efficient than conventional electric models. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

Savings Over Time: You could save up to $3,000 on energy bills over a decade compared to traditional heaters.
Incentives for Energy Efficiency: Their efficiency may also qualify for federal tax credits.

Adopting a hybrid heat pump water heater represents not just an upgrade in your home’s heating system, but a sustainable choice leading to reduced energy costs over the long run.

How Does the Size and Energy Efficiency of a Water Heater Affect Its Cost?

When selecting a traditional water heater, size plays a pivotal role in dictating the price. Larger units naturally demand a higher investment due to their capacity to store more water. However, size isn’t the only factor influencing cost—energy efficiency is equally significant.

Energy Efficiency and Pricing

Water heaters that boast enhanced energy efficiency typically come with a higher upfront cost. Models such as hybrids or those equipped with advanced features are priced higher because they offer substantial savings on energy bills over time. For instance, opting for energy-efficient brands can lead to lower utility expenses, making the initial investment worthwhile.

Impact of Upgrades on Installation Costs

Sometimes, purchasing an efficient model can trigger additional expenses. This is particularly true if you need home upgrades to accommodate the water heater or ensure the installation meets current codes. Such modifications will inevitably raise the installation costs.

Government Incentives

Brightening the outlook, government rebates often help reduce the overall expenditure on energy-efficient water heaters. These incentives are designed to offset the initial costs and promote sustainable choices, making high-efficiency models more accessible.

Utility Cost Savings

Especially in the case of tankless water heaters, although they come with a steeper upfront price, these units offer significant savings by reducing ongoing utility bills.

Ultimately, balancing the size and energy efficiency needs with your budget can lead to a smart investment that pays off in the long run.

Why Are Permits Necessary for Installing a New Water Heater?

Installing a new water heater may seem like a straightforward project, but it’s one that often requires obtaining a permit. Here’s why these permits are crucial:

Safety Compliance: Water heaters are complex appliances that involve both water and electricity or gas. To safeguard your home and its occupants, installations must adhere to local building and safety codes. Permits ensure that installations are inspected by professionals to prevent potential hazards like gas leaks or electrical fires.
Quality Assurance: When a permit is acquired, it mandates official inspections. Certified inspectors evaluate the work to verify that it meets the established standards. This oversight ensures your water heater is installed correctly, functions efficiently, and lasts longer.
Insurance and Liability: Having the proper permits in place can protect you if issues arise. In the event of a malfunction or damage, insurance companies are more likely to cover claims if the installation was performed legally and inspected as required. Failure to secure a permit could leave you fully liable.
Property Value Preservation: If you plan to sell your home, unpermitted work can become a stumbling block. Potential buyers might be wary of any unauthorized changes, and building inspections could reveal the oversight, potentially derailing the sale or requiring costly corrections.
Adherence to Local Regulations: Different regions have specific guidelines and codes related to construction and utility installations. Permits ensure compliance with these local regulations, avoiding fines or legal complications.

In conclusion, while acquiring a permit for a water heater installation may seem like an extra step, it’s a critical one for ensuring the safety, legality, and integrity of your home improvement projects.

Tip Two: Choose a Tankless Water Heater Installation System to Save Costs

Tankless Water Heater Installation

I know what you’re thinking.. what do you mean go with a tankless water heater and save money? Are tankless water heater installations more expensive? Those are valid questions. Let me answer them for you. A tankless water heater is more expensive in some aspects. The initial up front cost for a tankless water heater installation is about twice or even three times as expensive as a traditional storage tank water heater like the one pictured above.

Why is the upfront cost so much higher for a tankless water heater? That’s a good question too. A tankless water heater (the actual unit/device) costs more from local suppliers and major home supply chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s than the traditional alternative. You will literally pay up to $1,000 more for just the tankless water heater unit. Now, remember how I said before that if you buy the unit yourself, you will save money. This is still true here and applies to all water heater installations service, including tank water heater installation. Buy your own tankless water heater and save anywhere from $300–$500 in markup!

A tankless water heater will save you money in the long run because they are less prone to catastrophic failure (failure of the unit resulting in water damage to your home and possible flooding). These water heater failures can cause thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home. If installation budget isn’t an issue and you have $3,000–$5,000 to invest in going tankless, then by all means, a tankless water heater is definitely the superior option, as it will save you money over time by only heating the water on demand. For those seeking cheap water heater installation options, a traditional unit might be more suitable upfront. With a tankless heater, you will not be heating water needlessly throughout the day while you’re at work or on vacation. Additionally, tankless water heaters tend to outlast traditional units, giving you 5–10 years of added life.

Tip: If you just do not have the budget for a tankless unit – save by going with the traditional. Traditional storage tank water heaters literally cost a fraction of what a new tankless unit will cost you if you do not already have a tankless unit that just needs to be replaced. Also think about getting a flood stop device that uses sensors to detect water in the water heater drain pan and shut off water to the unit automatically! This device alone could potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

Understanding Water Heater Warranty Options

When purchasing a water heater, you’ll find various warranty options available, ensuring peace of mind for your investment. Generally, warranties for both tank and tankless water heaters are offered by manufacturers, with durations typically ranging from 6 to 12 years.

Coverage Details:

Duration: Choose from coverage periods of 6, 9, or 12 years based on your specific requirements.
Parts Protection: Warranties usually cover the water heater itself along with any necessary parts for repairs.
Labor Coverage: Many plans also include labor warranties, commonly available in 1, 2, and 3-year increments, ensuring professional repair work during the warranty period.

Exploring Enhanced Protection:

For added security, consider third-party protection plans. These plans often extend beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, offering enhanced coverage that further safeguards your water heater and home.

How Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heaters Save Energy

Hybrid heat pump water heaters are revolutionary in their efficiency, offering substantial savings over traditional units. But how do they achieve this?

The Science Behind the Savings

Unlike conventional electric water heaters that generate heat directly through electricity, hybrid heat pump water heaters work differently. They leverage electricity to relocate existing heat from surrounding air, a process that requires much less energy. This innovative method makes them highly energy-efficient—up to three times more than traditional electric models.

Significant Cost Savings

By using this technology, a hybrid heat pump water heater can significantly drive down energy costs. Imagine this: over a decade, these units can potentially save you as much as $3,000. This reduction makes a compelling case for choosing a hybrid model over a conventional one.

Financial Incentives

Beyond energy savings, hybrid heat pump water heaters may also offer financial benefits in the form of federal tax credits. Additionally, your local utility company might offer rebates, further enhancing the value of switching to this technology.

In summary, by efficiently using existing heat rather than creating it from scratch, hybrid heat pump water heaters dramatically cut energy consumption and costs, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.

Comparing Gas and Electric Water Heaters: Cost Efficiency and Installation

When evaluating water heaters, homeowners frequently grapple with choosing between gas and electric models. Each type has its unique advantages and considerations, particularly regarding cost efficiency and installation.

Cost Efficiency

Operating Costs:
- Gas Water Heaters: Generally, gas heaters are cheaper to run because natural gas tends to be less expensive than electricity. However, this is contingent upon having access to a natural gas supply.
- Electric Water Heaters: While the operation of electric units can result in higher utility bills, their overall energy consumption may be lower, often translating into minor differences over time.
Initial Purchase Price:
- Gas Models: Tend to be more expensive upfront due to complexity and additional components required, such as venting systems.
- Electric Models: Typically have a lower purchase price, making them attractive to budget-conscious buyers.

Installation Considerations

Gas Water Heaters: Installation can be more intricate and costly. It necessitates a dedicated gas line and proper ventilation to safely expel combustion gases.
Electric Water Heaters: These are usually easier and cheaper to install, as they do not require gas line connections or extensive venting. Their setup is straightforward and can often be completed more quickly.

Heat Retention

One notable difference is in heat retention. Electric models are generally more thermally efficient, holding onto heat longer. This can mitigate some of the higher operating costs over time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a gas and an electric water heater hinges on several factors, including your home’s current energy setup, local utility costs, and installation logistics. Evaluate both the short-term and long-term financial implications to find the option that best aligns with your needs and circumstances.

Are There Government Rebates Available for Energy-Efficient Water Heaters?

Absolutely, government rebates can help offset the cost of purchasing a new energy-efficient water heater. Models that meet specific energy-saving criteria, such as those certified by ENERGY STAR™, are often eligible for these financial incentives.

Types of Energy-Efficient Water Heaters

Tankless Water Heaters: Although they may come with a higher initial price tag, their energy efficiency often results in reduced utility bills over time.
High-Efficiency Tank Water Heaters: These models strike a balance between upfront costs and long-term savings, making them an attractive option for many homeowners.

Steps to Access Rebates

Research: Start by checking available government rebate programs in your area. Websites like ENERGY STAR provide useful information regarding eligibility criteria and application processes.
Selection: Choose a model that qualifies for rebates, focusing on its efficiency rating and any certifications it holds.
Application: Follow the instructions provided for submitting rebate applications, typically after purchase. Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation that verify your purchase and the unit’s efficiency rating.

For the most current rebate information, consult resources like local government webpages or rebate finder tools available online.

Tip Three: Check Your Plumber’s Website for Discounts and Coupons

Lots of times customers can easily miss readily available discounts and coupons. Many companies want you to mention their ad , discount or coupons when scheduling your appointment. Most places usually have a section on their website dedicated to these things and you can easily save between $50 and $200! Combined with the other tips we have provided, your savings potential is nothing to turn a nose up at.

Bonus Tip: Seniors Citizens and Veterans typically get added discounts from service providers. Always mention this when you call to set up your appointment! You could save a significant percentage in some cases!

Tip 4: Pressed Fittings Vs. Solder

I know this is an odd one, but it can make a difference! Pressed copper fittings are typically a bit more expensive to use than regular copper fittings designed to be soldered together. When examining your plumbers bid for the water heater installation service make sure that you aren’t being over charged for pro-press fittings that require a press tool. Old fashioned solder fittings are going to be far cheaper and can save you a bit on your installation bill!

If you are installing a water heater for the first time or if the heater has to be added in a new location you could possibly save even more money on materials by having the water heater repiped with PEX or Uponor. This will greatly reduce the cost of installation due to the much lower materials cost! Copper is an expensive metal in any application and the benefits of switching to PEX or Uponor are fantastic. PEX and Uponor expand if there is a freeze inside the line, unlike rigid copper. PEX and Uponor can swell and change shape without bursting, potentially saving thousands in damages from a burst water line.

Tip 5: Avoid DIY & Handyman Installations

When it comes to your own personal property it is always better to trust a professional to perform plumbing repairs and hot water heater installation. A licensed professional plumber has thousands of hours of experience and has probably installed more of these heaters in a day than you will in your lifetime. Make sure that the guy you choose for the job knows his stuff. Ask him about code requirements and see if they have any knowledge about safety add ons or flood stops. This will allow you to gauge how knowledgeable the plumber you are hiring is. More importantly though, it is almost never a great idea to try to do it yourself when it comes to plumbing. I will give you that there are a few exceptions to this rule, perhaps if you’re just changing out a flapper in toilet etc. However, when it comes to your water heater and cutting and soldering copper pipe I would absolutely recommend that you spend the extra cash and get a licensed, fully insured professional for the job. It may cost more up front, but it will save you time, energy, frustration and in the end even some cash.

Explore Our Comprehensive Water Heater Installation Services

Choosing the right water heater isn’t just about picking a product—it’s about finding a solution that meets your specific needs. Here’s how we enhance your installation experience:

Complimentary In-Home Consultation: Begin with an expert consultation right in the comfort of your home. This personalized service ensures all your questions are answered and helps tailor a quote that works for you.
Quality Assurance: Opting for our services guarantees your installation will be handled by licensed and certified professionals. Rest easy knowing every technician has passed rigorous background checks to ensure safety and reliability.
Quick and Efficient Installations: For those situated within a 30-mile radius of our locations, we offer the possibility of same-day installations. Just contact us before noon on weekdays to take advantage of this convenient option.
Tailored Solutions:
- Tank Water Heaters: Our team can help you select and install a unit that’s just right for your budgetary and functional needs.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Interested in going tankless? We evaluate your current setup to determine if a tankless heater is a viable choice for your space.

Each service aims to provide a seamless experience from start to finish, transforming water heater installation into a hassle-free process.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Water Heater on Average?

A water heater is essential for any household, providing the hot water needed for everything from showering to cleaning. When it comes to choosing the right water heater, options range from traditional tank units to innovative tankless models, using either gas or electricity. On average, you can expect installation costs to fall between $1,600 and $5,400.

Factors Influencing Installation Costs

Type of Water Heater:
- Traditional tank heaters generally cost less upfront but may incur higher energy expenses over time.
- Tankless heaters typically have a higher initial cost but are more energy-efficient, which can save money in the long run.
Energy Source:
- Gas-powered units might have higher installation costs due to venting requirements.
- Electric models are usually easier and cheaper to install but could be more expensive to operate based on local energy rates.
Installation Complexity:
- Replacing an existing unit might be straightforward and less costly.
- A new installation, particularly in a different location, may involve additional plumbing or electrical work, increasing expenses.
Regional Pricing:
- Prices can vary based on geographic location due to differing labor rates and permitting fees.

Making the Best Choice

Selecting the right water heater involves balancing your immediate budget with long-term energy savings. Consider consulting a professional to evaluate your specific needs, which will ensure you choose a unit that offers the best performance and cost-efficiency for your home.

Conclusion

Well that about sums up our tips to save on water heater tank installation. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us today! Our professional plumbers are available Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our licensed professional plumbers in your area, give us a call now! You can reach us at 972-492-5369!

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