Water Heater Replacement in Houston

Water heater replacement in Houston is something you want done fast and done right. We swap tank and tankless units, pull the City of Houston permit and haul the old one away, with the price in writing first.

Signs your water heater needs replacing

  • No hot water or only lukewarm water
  • The tank is 10 to 12 years old
  • Rust-colored water from hot taps
  • Popping or rumbling noises from the tank
  • Water pooling around the base
  • The pilot light keeps going out on a gas unit
  • Hot water runs out faster than it used to
  • A leak from the tank itself, not a fitting

How a water heater swap works

  1. 1Pick the typeTank or tankless, gas or electric. We explain the cost of each and what fits your space.
  2. 2Permit is pulledA City of Houston water heater permit is required, and a master plumber pulls it.
  3. 3Old unit outWe shut off gas or power, drain the tank and haul it away.
  4. 4New unit inWe install new connections, an expansion tank if needed, a gas shutoff and flex connector, and code-safe venting.
  5. 5Test and inspectionWe check temperature and leaks, then the city inspects the work.

Water heater options and costs in Houston

Standard tank, 40 to 50 gallon$1,200–$2,500 installed (typical)

Gas or electric. The most common choice for a family home.

High-efficiency or hybrid tank$2,000–$4,500 installed (typical)

Lower running cost, higher price up front.

Tankless$2,500–$6,500 installed (typical)

Endless hot water and saves space. Venting and gas line upgrades raise the cost.

Add-ons$175–$425 (our price)

Expansion tank $285, gas shutoff and flex connector $175, pressure reducing valve $425.

Typical Houston ranges for planning. Your written price comes after we see the job.

What changes the price

  • Tank or tankless, and the size
  • Gas or electric
  • Attic, closet or garage location and how easy it is to reach
  • Code upgrades such as an expansion tank, drain pan or new venting
  • Permit and inspection fee, minimum $97.56 in Houston

See the full cost guide →

Good to know in Houston

Many Houston water heaters sit in attics or garages, which makes access and venting a bigger part of the job. Garage units must sit on a platform in many cases because of fire code. After freezes or floods, ask us to check gas lines and water heater controls for damage before you relight.

The City of Houston requires a permit and inspection for a water heater replacement, and the permit is pulled by a City-registered master plumber. The minimum permit fee is $97.56.

Questions about water heaters

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Houston?

Yes. The City of Houston requires a plumbing permit and an inspection. We pull the permit and schedule the inspection.

How long does a swap take?

A standard tank swap takes about 2 to 4 hours. Tankless installs can take a full day.

Is tankless worth it?

It saves space and gives hot water on demand. The higher upfront cost takes years to pay back.

How long do water heaters last?

Tank units usually last 8 to 12 years. Tankless units can last 15 to 20 with yearly flushing.

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