Replacing a water heater usually costs about $1,400, with most homeowners paying $900 to $3,000 installed, depending on the type and how much needs to change. Call 540-200-2302 to get connected with a licensed Roanoke plumber who'll quote the job first.
National figures from the Fixr water heater installation cost guide, updated January 2026. Your Roanoke quote depends on the unit, access and any code updates.
How much does water heater replacement cost?
Installed prices run roughly $500 to $3,500 for an electric tank, $700 to $2,700 for a gas tank, $1,000 to $4,000 for tankless, and $1,200 to $4,600 for a heat pump water heater.
| Type | Typical installed cost | Typical life |
|---|---|---|
| Electric tank | $500 – $3,500 | 8 – 12 years |
| Gas tank | $700 – $2,700 | 8 – 12 years |
| Tankless (gas or electric) | $1,000 – $4,000 | 15 – 20 years |
| Heat pump (hybrid) | $1,200 – $4,600 | 13 – 15 years* |
*Heat pump life from PickHVAC. Other ranges from Fixr.
Signs it's time to replace, not repair
- Water leaking from the tank itself: a rusted-through tank can't be fixed.
- Age: tank heaters usually last 8 to 12 years. Past that, a repair often just buys time.
- Rusty or discolored hot water that clears when you run cold.
- Rumbling or popping from heavy sediment, plus hot water that runs out fast.
- Repairs adding up: if a fix costs close to half the price of a new unit, most plumbers suggest replacing.
Not sure? Start with water heater repair; the plumber will tell you if replacement makes more sense.
Which type of water heater should I choose?
Most Roanoke homes replace like for like: a gas or electric tank of the same size. Tankless and heat pump units cost more up front but use less energy and last longer.
- Tank (gas or electric): lowest upfront cost, simplest swap.
- Tankless: endless hot water and a smaller footprint, but may need gas line, venting or electrical upgrades.
- Heat pump: the most efficient electric option, but it needs space and a 240-volt circuit.
Compare them on our tankless and heat pump water heater page.
What size water heater do I need?
For a tank, plumbers size by household: a 40- to 50-gallon tank is a common fit for two to four people, and bigger households often need more. Tankless units are sized by flow rate instead, meaning how many showers and appliances run at once. Your plumber will check before quoting.
What a water heater installation includes
- Draining and disconnecting the old heater, and hauling it away (ask if that's included).
- Setting the new unit, with a drain pan where needed.
- Connecting water, gas or electric, and venting for gas units.
- Fitting a new temperature-and-pressure relief valve and, if required, an expansion tank.
- Filling, testing and checking for leaks.
Many localities require a permit for water heater replacement. Ask whether the permit and inspection are included in the quote.
Common questions
How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
Nationally, about $1,400 on average, with most installs between $900 and $3,000 (Fixr, January 2026). Tank units cost least; tankless and heat pump units cost more but last longer.
How long does water heater replacement take?
A like-for-like tank swap is often done in a few hours. Switching to tankless or a heat pump can take longer if gas, venting or electrical work is needed.
How long does a water heater last?
Tank water heaters usually last 8 to 12 years, tankless units 15 to 20 years, and heat pump units around 13 to 15 years.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?
Often, yes. Ask the plumber whether the permit and inspection are included in your quote.