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Does Home Depot Install Water Heaters for Free?

Does Home Depot Install Water Heaters for Free?

Replacing a water heater typically costs hundreds if not thousands of dollars, so you may find yourself wondering if Home Depot will install a water heater purchased from them for free!

Home Depot charges between $1,000 – $3,000 for a water heater installation. This price includes permits, installation materials, and removal of the old water heater. Changing fuel sources or switching from a tank to a tankless water heater can increase costs.

Keep reading to learn more about the factors that influence the cost of a water heater installation!

Home Depot Water Heater Installation Cost

The cost for Home Depot to install your water heater ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. This depends on whether you are choosing a tank water heater or a tankless water heater.

Option 1: Tank Water Heater

A tank water heater is a traditional unit that is fueled by gas or electricity. It can hold 20 to 80 gallons of water.

The upfront investment of a tank water heater is lower than a tankless water heater. However, the operation and maintenance costs are higher than a tankless water heater.

The nationwide costs of a tank water heater ranges from $1,300 to $2,000, but the average cost is usually $1,500. 

A tank water heater installation includes the following factors:

Option 2: Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater also runs on gas or electricity, but it does not store water within the unit. The unit only heats water as needed, which is great for conserving water and energy. It also has a compact design to save space.

The operation costs are lower than a tank water heater, but the upfront investment is higher than a tank water heater.

The nationwide costs of a tankless water heater ranges from $1,200 to $5,000, but the average cost is usually $3,500. 

A tankless water heater installation includes the following factors:

  • Tankless water heater
  • Required permits
  • Installation materials
  • Installation labor
  • Old unit removal

The total cost of a tank or tankless water heater installation depends on the type of model, energy-efficient features, warranties, and region. It should also be noted that gas water heaters are less expensive than electric water heaters.

Home Depot offers same-day installation at no extra cost. You do need to call before noon and live within 30 miles of a Home Depot location.

water heater with toolbox next to it

What Is Included In Water Heater Installation?

If you decide to hire Home Depot to install your water heater, it never hurts to find out what to expect during the installation process.

1. Consultation

The process starts with the consultation, which gives you an idea of the work involved and the total cost of your installation.

You can schedule an in-person or over-the-phone consultation with a professional. The professional keeps your space, water use, and budget in mind for the installation.

During the consultation, you need to provide information on your current water heater. The information includes the following details:

  • Whether it is a tank or tankless water heater
  • Whether it is fueled by gas or electricity
  • The size of the water heater
  • The location of the water heater

A service provider uses this information to recommend a model, offer a price estimate and explain financing options. 

2. Preparing For Installation

If you decide to schedule an installation with Home Depot, you need to prepare your home for installation.

The first thing you need to do is take photos of the installation area. This includes the vents, connection points, electrical outlets, and surrounding area. Professionals can refer to the photos as needed.

Next, you want to measure the doors and windows to find the best point of entry for your new water heater, especially if it is a tank water heater.

You should also ensure the area and path are clear to create a safe workspace for your professional.

3. During The Installation

On the day of your installation, your service provider calls about an hour before the appointment to let you know that your professional is on the way.

Once they arrive at your home, they present their Home Depot Service Provider badge, do a walkthrough and discuss the project.

If you decide to move forward with the installation, the process can take several hours. This depends on the type of tank and work involved in the installation.

Your professional can return the next day to finish the installation if there are any problems.

4. Post-Installation

Once the installation is complete, your professional cleans up and removes your old water heater.

They also provide information and maintenance instructions on your new water heater.

Will Home Depot Haul Away Your Old Water Heater?

Home Depot hauls away your old water heater as part of the installation process. The cost of removing your old water heater is included in the total cost of the installation.

Can You Get A Water Heater Installation Estimate Without An In-Home Consultation?

A Home Depot service provider can give you an estimate over the phone. Of course, you need to give them as much information as possible.

However, a service provider does need to inspect the site to ensure it meets the local codes and regulations before the installation.

Can You Install A Water Heater On Your Own?

It is possible to install a water heater on your own. However, you need to be skilled in areas such as plumbing and electrical. Other tasks include learning the building codes, obtaining a permit, and scheduling an inspection of the area.

The lack of skills, tools, and knowledge can lead to a mistake that causes you to spend more money than planned!

If you do not have the skills, tools, or experience necessary for installing a water heater, it is best to hire a professional from a reliable company for the job. For example, you may want to hire a service provider from Home Depot.

Reasons You May Need To Install A New Water Heater

There are several reasons you may need to install a new water heater in your home.

#1 Unit Replacement

If your water heater is rundown or damaged, it is time to have the unit replaced by a professional. You can hire a professional to inspect your water heater before you move forward with a replacement.

#2 Unit Upgrade

You may also decide to upgrade an outdated water heater. For example, you may want to add a smart or digital water heater to your home.

Home Depot Does Not Install Water Heaters For Free

Remember, Home Depot does not install water heaters for free. You can hire a professional to install a tank or tankless water heater for a price. If you have the skills, tools, and knowledge, you can always install your own water heater.

The price range to have a professional from Home Depot install your water heater ranges from $1,000 to $3,500, but it is worth it to have a professional install your water heater.

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Lindsay Reed

Hi, I'm the founder of ProjectPerfectHome.com! I created this website to be a resource for everyone who wants to make the best home possible.