True Cost of Installing a Tankless Water Heater: Debunking Inflated Charges
When considering the installation of a tankless water heater, it's important to understand what constitutes a reasonable cost and what might be considered an inflated quote. The common perception is that a quote of $11,000 is an extreme outlier. However, several factors can play a role in this cost, including additional services and the specific needs of the installation site.
Understanding the Inflated Quote
The $11,000 quote may seem unreasonable to many homeowners, and it usually indicates an attempt to discourage the use of tankless water heaters. However, as we will explore further, there are legitimate reasons why this quoted price might be inflated. Let's break down the potential factors contributing to such a high cost:
Additional Services Billed Separately
The plumber might have factored in additional services that could be part of the quoted price:
New Gas Line - A new gas line might be necessary to install a tankless water heater, especially if the existing one is inadequate or damaged. Water Lines Installation - Fresh water lines might need to be replaced or added if the existing lines are compromised or insufficient. Propane Tank Installation - If a propane-powered tankless heater is being installed, a new propane tank might be required. Venting - Proper venting for a gas-fired tankless water heater might involve additional work or the installation of a new vent system.Electric Service Upgrades
In some cases, the cost might be inflated due to the need for electrical service upgrades:
Inadequate Electrical Service - If the current electrical service is not sufficient to power a tankless water heater, upgrades might be necessary. This can include a higher-rated electrical service panel and possibly new wires from the street to the house.Installers' Misleading Strategies
It's not uncommon for installers to intentionally use large, inflated numbers to deter homeowners from choosing a tankless water heater. Some might quote ridiculous amounts for a tank water heater to make the tankless option seem too high by comparison. This practice can be misleading and can disadvantage the homeowner.
Reasonable Cost Estimation
A fair and reasonable installation cost for a tankless water heater is much lower than $11,000. For a typical residential installation in an established neighborhood, the cost might be closer to $2,000 to $4,000. This can include the heater unit itself, hard piping, and basic installation services.
Additional Situations That Might Justify Higher Costs
While the typical cost is lower, there are instances where higher prices may be justified:
Special Installation Requirements - If the location is remote and requires extensive planning and logistics, the cost might increase. Multiple Units Needed - If you elect to have multiple tankless units for designated taps throughout the home, the installation might require more labor and materials, increasing the cost. Electric Tankless Heaters with Pole Installation - If an electric tankless heater is chosen and multiple new poles are required, this can be a significant additional cost.Conclusion
If you receive a quote of $11,000 for installing a tankless water heater, it's essential to get a second and third estimate. This will help you establish a more accurate average price and ensure that you're getting a fair and reasonable cost for your installation. Be vigilant and don't hesitate to verify the details and scope of the work to avoid being overcharged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Inflated Quote be the Result of Misleading Tactics?
Yes, some installers may use inflated quotes to discourage the installation of tankless water heaters. It’s important to verify the scope of work and get multiple estimates to avoid being misled.
What Factors Can Impact the Cost of Tankless Water Heater Installation?
The cost can be affected by various factors, including the need for new gas lines, water lines, venting, and electric service upgrades. Ensure that the quoted price includes all these services to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Typical Residential Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost?
A typical installation cost is between $2,000 and $4,000. This includes the unit, basic installation services, and necessary plumbing, but additional factors can increase the cost.