How much does it cost to replace a 50- gallon water heater?
How much does it cost to replace a 50- gallon water heater?
$700 – $1,800 average total cost (electric)
$1,000 – $3,100+ average total cost (gas)
Average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater
The average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $700 to $1,800 for an electric unit or $1,000 to $3,100+ for a gas unit, including labor. A 50-gallon water heater costs $500 to $2,100 for the unit alone, depending on the fuel type, energy efficiency, features, and brand.
| Factor | Average cost (electric) |
Average cost (gas) |
|---|---|---|
| Water heater | $500 – $1,200 | $600 – $2,100 |
| Installation labor | $200 – $600 | $400 – $1,000+ |
| Total installed cost | $700 – $1,800 | $1,000 – $3,100+ |
Replacing a gas water heater with electric or vice versa costs more and may require hiring additional contractors to run new wiring or gas lines.
The average cost to replace a water heater is $500 to $2,800, depending on the size and fuel type, with 40- to 50-gallon water heaters being the most popular sizes. In comparison, tankless water heater installation costs $1,400 to $5,600 on average.
50-gallon electric water heater
A 50-gallon electric water heater costs $500 to $1,200 for the unit alone. Electric water heaters are best suited for smaller households with moderate hot water demands. Electric units are cheaper up front but cost more to operate than gas water heaters.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
50-gallon gas water heater
A 50-gallon gas water heater costs $600 to $2,100, not including installation labor. Gas water heaters are suitable for larger households with higher hot water demands. Gas units cost more up front but cost less to operate compared to electric heaters.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
50-gallon hybrid heat pump water heater
A 50-gallon hybrid heat pump water heater costs $2,300 to $4,400 installed. These systems require ample open-air space to extract heat from the air. They qualify for a $300 federal tax credit and other potential rebates because they are up to four times more energy efficient than electric tank heaters.
50-gallon water heater installation cost factors
Several factors impact the cost of installing a 50-gallon water heater:
Labor: Replacing a basic 50-gallon water heater is usually straightforward and takes a professional plumber 3 to 4 hours. Complex jobs with venting issues or requiring a gas line plumber may take 6 hours or longer.
Difficult installations: Expect to pay $125 to $300 per additional labor hour for installations that require extra work, including accessing cramped spaces like closets.
Emergency or after-hours service: Additional service charges apply for emergency or after-hours installation.
Energy efficiency: More energy-efficient water heaters have a higher upfront cost but pay for themselves in 4 to 6 years through energy savings.
Brands: Rheem, American Standard, and Whirlpool offer competitively priced models with shorter warranties than premium brands like Bradford White and A.O. Smith which charge more for their innovative technologies and better warranties.
Permits & inspection: Permit fees of $50 to $150 may apply for gas line modifications or electrical work.
Venting: Gas heaters need venting for adequate airflow, increasing costs by $500 to $1,500, depending on the type of venting required and the installation complexity. Power vent gas water heaters with an electric blower cost more than direct venting units that are easier to install and don’t require electrical connections.
Expansion tank: Most large water heater tanks require an expansion tank to control water pressure and prevent damage. Installation costs $100 to $350, depending on the type:
Bladder types cost $100 to $200 and use an internal bladder to absorb pressure.
External tanks cost $200 to $350 for a separate tank attached to the plumbing system.
Disposal of old unit: Removal and disposal of an old water heater costs $70 to $500, depending on whether the tank is drained and disconnected already. Most plumbers include removal and disposal in the new water heater installation cost.
50-gallon water heater operating cost
An average family can expect to spend $20 to $60 per month to run a 50-gallon residential water heater. The monthly cost depends on the fuel source and local utility rates.
| Water heater type | Average monthly operating cost |
|---|---|
| Gas | $20 – $35 |
| Electric | $40 – $60 |
In comparison, a 40-gallon water heater costs $600 to $3,000+ with installation, and operating costs range from $20 to $55 per month.
Signs of a failing water heater
Schedule an annual water heater inspection to catch small problems before they become bigger and more costly. If you notice any of these common warning signs, replacement may be necessary:
Loss of hot water
Discolored or rusty water
Strange noises
Leaking tank
High energy bills
No hot water
Water heater replacement FAQs
How long does a 50-gallon water heater last?
Conventional tank water heaters, whether gas or electric, typically last around 10 to 15 years. However, regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment, can contribute to a longer lifespan.
How long does it take for a 50-gallon water heater to heat?
A standard 50-gallon electric water heater takes about 1 to 2 hours to heat the water in the tank. Electric heaters have heating elements inside the tank that gradually raise the temperature of the water.
Gas water heaters use a burner and can heat water more quickly than electric models. A 50-gallon gas water heater can often provide hot water within 30 to 40 minutes.
How much does a 50-gallon water heater weigh?
A standard 50-gallon water heater weighs around 120 to 170 pounds when empty, depending on the tank material. Adding 50 gallons of water will bring the total weight to over 535 pounds.
How tall is a 50-gallon water heater?
Standard 50-gallon residential water heaters are around 50 to 60 inches tall. However, specific dimensions vary among different manufacturers and models. Check the product specifications provided by the manufacturer, as these details can influence the installation and placement of the unit in your home.
What size tankless water heater to replace a 50-gallon?
The best tankless water heater size to replace a 50-gallon tank depends on your household's hot water consumption, your climate, and the fuel type. For a typical household with moderate hot water usage, a tankless heater with a flow rate of 5 to 7 gallons per minute is sufficient.
Is an A.O. Smith 50-gallon water heater worth it?
A.O. Smith has been a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial water heating technologies for over 145 years. Their commitment to innovation, best-in-class support, and unmatched quality are considered worth the cost.
Hiring a water heater installation company
When choosing a water heater installation company near you, follow these suggestions:
Obtain a minimum of 3 quotes from licensed plumbers for comparison.
Make sure the estimates include the same size and type of water heater.
Review customer feedback and past projects on HomeGuide and Google.
Select companies with proper licensing, insurance, and bonding.
Confirm the estimate covers the removal of the old water heater.
Request a detailed estimate, contract, and written warranty before starting the work.
Avoid making a full payment up front; instead, adhere to a predetermined payment plan.
Questions to ask a plumber about water heater replacement
To ensure a successful and stress-free water heater replacement, ask installers these questions:
Is a 50-gallon water heater the right size for my household?
What experience do you have installing 50-gallon water heaters?
Which energy source—gas, propane, or electric—is the most suitable for my home, and what are the reasons for your recommendation?
Should I consider a tankless water heater instead?
Would a hybrid heat pump water heater be advantageous for my residence, and if so, why?
Which water heater brands do you recommend, and why?
Are there any ongoing manufacturer rebates that qualify?
Does your cost estimate include removing and disposing of my existing water heater?
What additional expenses should I anticipate?
What permits are required, and will you take care of that process?
How long will the installation take?
What is the warranty period and coverage for this water heater?
What is the anticipated lifespan of the water heater, and are there measures I can take to extend its longevity?
What kind of maintenance regimen is recommended for my new water heater?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.