Community & Commenting Guidelines
Effective and Last Updated: February 17, 2014
Community & Commenting Guidelines
At O’Grady Plumbing, http://OgradyPlumbing.com (collectively “OGP”) and http://OGradyPlumbing.com/blog, one of our objectives is to support individuals and commercial entities interested in and learning more about plumbing and related services.
With this objective in mind, we seek to bring a diverse range of perspectives and voices into OGP. While we do not want to limit the spirit of civil disagreement, we will decline to publish certain content, including factually incorrect comments and user-generated content (“Unacceptable Content”), and will remove it at our discretion if we find it on this website.
Unacceptable content includes but is not limited to the following:
- Irrelevant statements or SPAM.
- Defamatory or knowingly false statements.
- Information of a private or personal nature that does not have relevant value.
- Statements that are intended as a personal attack or are abusive, harassing, or threatening.
- Materials that violate the copyright, trademark, or trade secret rights of others that are not otherwise authorized by law, such as fair use.
- Statements that are threatening, harassing, libelous, false, defamatory, offensive, obscene or pornographic, abusive, off-topic, use excessive foul language, or include ad hominem attacks.
We at OGP will determine what is “Unacceptable Content” on a case-by-case basis. We reserve the right to change these standards at any time. We also reserve the right to edit user-contributed statements and remove links to unacceptable off-site content at any time.
These Community & Commenting Guidelines Became Effective and Last Updated: February 17, 2014
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How much does it cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater?
The cost of replacing a 50-gallon hot water heater typically ranges from $850 to $3,600 nationally in 2025. Most customers spend around $2,700 to replace a 50-gallon gas hot water heater with the same type. For a 50-gallon electric hot water heater in an accessible location, you're looking at approximately $900. If you want a high-efficiency 50-gallon gas model with upgrades installed in a difficult-to-access location, costs can reach up to $4,800.
What is the life expectancy of a water heater?
The lifespan of a water heater varies by type. A traditional tank-style hot water heater typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Tankless water heaters generally have a longer lifespan, often exceeding 20 years. Regular maintenance, such as draining the tank to clear sediment, can help extend the life of your water heater.
Should I get a 40-gallon water heater or a 50-gallon water heater?
This decision depends primarily on your household size and hot water needs. Generally, a 40-gallon tank works well for households with 1-2 people and is more cost-effective and energy-efficient for smaller families. A 50-gallon tank is better suited for households with 3-5 people where multiple hot water activities might occur simultaneously. Consider your daily routines—if family members take consecutive showers while running the dishwasher or washing machine, the larger tank would be beneficial. Also consider physical space constraints and energy costs. If you're consistently running out of hot water with your current tank, sizing up is usually wise. For the most accurate recommendation, have a plumbing professional assess your specific hot water demands.
How much does it cost to put in a 40-gallon water heater?
Standard 40-gallon water heaters range in price from $400 to $1,800 for the equipment alone. When you include installation costs, the total price typically falls between $950 and $3,000 in 2025. A 40-gallon water heater is usually sufficient for a two-person household and can be a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
How long does it take a plumber to replace a water heater?
The installation time varies depending on the type of unit, the size of your home, and any complications that arise. Generally, professional plumbers can complete a water heater installation in two to three hours if there are no problems or obstacles. The process includes consultation, removing the old heater, and installing the new one, which involves connecting it to electrical or gas sources and making necessary adjustments.
Why is installing a water heater so expensive?
Water heater installation is expensive due to several factors. The process is complex and requires special tools and equipment. Labor costs are high because of the technical expertise needed. California has numerous code requirements that must be met for proper installation. Additionally, the cost of materials, including the water heater itself, can be substantial. Other factors that affect cost include mounting requirements, piping needs, tank removal, potential carpentry work, and the possible need for an expansion tank, which ranges from $50 to $180.
Can I replace my 40-gallon water heater with a tankless water heater?
Yes, you can replace your 40-gallon tank water heater with a tankless model. The cost typically ranges from $2,400 to $4,200 for the entire project, including the unit and installation. Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed, which can lead to significant savings on energy bills. They also tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional tank water heaters. However, consult with a qualified plumbing professional to ensure your home's electrical and plumbing systems are compatible with a tankless water heater.