How to Calculate the Cost of a Gas Water Heater Installation
Gas water heaters are crucial for homes. They provide heated water, whether you need a bath, shower or a cup of hot coffee. The cost of replacing a heater can prove to be prohibitive.
There are several factors to consider when trying to calculate the cost of a gas water heater. These include the type of gas heater used, its model, fuel type and location. Some costs can be included in your purchase price while some are additional. There are also options to improve the energy efficiency of the system.
Insulating a gas water heater will help reduce costs. If you have an attic tank, this is even more important. This can be done for around £150 or so, depending on the size. Leakbreakers can also help to prevent disasters in the event of a leaky waterline.
Another factor to consider is how to vent the unit. The power vent uses a fan to blow the exhaust out of your house. This is more efficient than a direct vent, but costs more money. A traditional atmosphere vent is another option. The most efficient system will require some electrical work, and can add up to £300 to £1,000 to the cost of the project.
Permits and related costs are also important to be aware of. There are some cities that require both a plumbing permit and an electrical permit. These can cost up to £200. Additional costs may be incurred if the plumber has to alter your plumbing.
The price of a gas water heater is a reflection of the number of people in your household, the size of the home, and the size of the heater. For a small family of 2 people, a 30-gallon tank is sufficient. For a large family of four, a 60 or 50 gallon tank will be needed. If you are planning to install a tankless water heater, the price will likely be lower.
You should also consider labor and material costs. A typical labor cost for a standard tank water heater is £200 to £1,000. For framing work such as drywall and carpentry, you can expect to spend more. A point-of-use tankless water heater costs about £600 on average, though this is subject to change.
When deciding on the cost of a gas water heater, be sure to compare the costs of the unit to the cost of the installation. A new heater is a significant investment, and a faulty unit can be a major threat to your home. Many companies provide free removal for old heaters when they are replaced.
You should also be informed about the most recent and best options to heat your water. These include new heaters with insulation that can help you save hundreds over the lifetime of your heater. Many models come equipped with alarms that can warn you of potential problems and prevent them from becoming catastrophes.