Water Heater
A storage-tank or tankless appliance that heats potable water for showers, faucets, dishwashers, and laundry — fueled by gas, electricity, or a heat pump.
Quick answer
Water Heater: A storage-tank or tankless appliance that heats potable water for showers, faucets, dishwashers, and laundry — fueled by gas, electricity, or a heat pump. Typical cost: $1,200–$2,500 standard tank; $3,000–$6,000 heat pump or tankless installed..
Why it matters
The average water heater fails at 10–12 years, almost always leaking. Heat pump water heaters now qualify for a 30% federal tax credit up to $2,000 and cut operating cost 60–70% vs electric resistance.
Typical cost
$1,200–$2,500 standard tank; $3,000–$6,000 heat pump or tankless installed.
Pros
- • Reliable hot water on demand
- • Heat pump models qualify for tax credit
- • Tankless models save space and cut standby loss
Cons
- • Tank models fail catastrophically at end of life
- • Heat pump models need 1,000+ cu ft of air space
- • Tankless requires gas line and venting upgrades
Common uses
- • Whole-home hot water supply
- • Replacement of failed or aged units
- • Recovery after major plumbing leaks
Alternatives
TanklessHeat pumpHybrid solar
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Frequently asked questions
- How long does a water heater last?
- Standard tanks last 8–12 years; tankless 15–20; heat pump 10–15. Annual flushing extends life 30%.
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