Professional Hot Water Tank Replacement
At Real Deal Plumbing and Drainage, we understand that replacing a water heater is a significant investment, and homeowners deserve clear, honest information before making this important decision.
How Much Does Hot Water Tank Replacement Cost?
Professional Hot Water Tank Replacement starts at $1950.00in the Fraser Valley.
A variety of factors go into this pricing, including size of your tank and whether you chose electric or gas.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hot water tank replacement, from costs and timing to choosing the right system for your home
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Pricing Estimates & Factors
Here's what you can expect with Real Deal Plumbing and Drainage:
Gas Water Heater
Replacement
40 gallon: Starting at $1,950 (basic) to $2,250
(full code compliance with permit
50 gallon:Starting at $2,550
(full installation to code)
60 gallon:Starting at $2,850
(full installation to code)
Electric Water Heater Replacement:
40-50 gallon: Starting at $2,000
80 gallon:
What's Included in Full Code Compliance:
Brand new hot water tank (Reem, Bradford White, or John Wood)
Gas permit (required by Technical Safety BC)
Expansion tank installation
Earthquake straps for safety
Professional installation and testing
Complete removal and disposal of old unit
Factors That Affect Your Final Cost:
Tank size and type (gas vs. electric)
Whether you already have code-compliant components
Venting type (atmospheric, power vented, or direct vented)
Accessibility and location in your home
Switching between gas and electric systems
Why Professional Installation Beats DIY Every Time
Safety First:
Gas water heaters involve natural gas connections—one mistake can be deadly
Improper venting can lead to carbon monoxide leaks
Electric installations require correct electrical connections to prevent fire hazards
Code Compliance and Permits:
Technical Safety BC requires gas permits for all installations
We carry pre-purchased permits for immediate installation
Building codes mandate specific venting, clearances, and safety features
DIY installations often fail inspections, requiring costly corrections
The Real Deal Advantage:
We've completed over 1,000 hot water tank installations
Red Seal certified expertise
6-year manufacturer warranty plus 1-year installation warranty
We handle all permits and inspections
Professional removal and disposal included
Special Policy for Tanks 6+ Years Old:
At Real Deal Plumbing, we don't repair tanks that are six years or older.
Here's why: Once we drain and disturb an older tank, we risk sending sediment debris up into your pipes, causing more problems than we solve. The cost of repairs on an older tank often approaches the cost of replacement anyway, making a new installation the smarter investment.
How Long Does Water Heater Replacement Take?
A professional water heater replacement typically takes 2-4 hours for a standard installation. However, several factors can extend this timeline:
Standard Installation (2-4 hours):
- Direct replacement of the same type and size
- No modifications to plumbing or venting required
- Easy access to the installation area
Extended Installation (4-8 hours or more):
- Switching from electric to gas or vice versa
- Installing a tankless system
- Code upgrades required (venting, expansion tanks, etc.)
- Difficult access or tight spaces
- Unexpected plumbing issues discovered
How Often Should a Hot Water Tank Be Replaced?
Most water heaters last 8-12 years, though Real Deal Plumbing and Drainage has seen some variations based on water quality and maintenance:
Realistic Lifespan Expectations:
- 8 years: Good lifespan for modern tanks
- 10 years: Great performance
- 12 years: Exceptional—you should be over the moon
Unfortunately, modern hot water tanks aren’t built like they used to be. Where homeowners once got 20-25 years from their tanks, today’s models are designed to fail much sooner.
Warning Signs It's Time to Replace Your Water Heater:
- The unit is 10+ years old
- Rusty or discolored water
- Rumbling or popping noises
- Leaking around the base
- Inconsistent water temperature
- Reduced hot water supply
- Higher energy bills without increased usage
Common Questions About Water Tank Replacements
Can you just replace the tank on a water heater?
No, the tank is the main component of the water heater and cannot be replaced separately. When the tank fails, the entire unit needs replacement.
How do I get help replacing my water heater?
Contact Real Deal Plumbing and Drainage for a free consultation. We’ll assess your needs and provide a detailed quote for replacement.
Should I upgrade to a larger tank?
If you’ve added family members or your current system can’t keep up with demand, upgrading size makes sense. We’ll help you calculate the right size for your needs.
What happens if I ignore the signs of a failing water heater?
Delaying replacement can lead to sudden failure, water damage, higher energy bills, and potentially dangerous situations with gas or electric water heaters.