Understanding Your Quote: Complete Pricing Transparency
✅ What's Always Included
Professional Installation
Licensed, insured technicians with years of experience
All Permits
We handle all paperwork and fees - no surprises
Old Unit Removal
Proper disposal and recycling included
Standard Materials
Basic connections, valves, and fittings
When Additional Costs May Apply
Every home is unique. Here are situations that may require additional work:
Understanding Your Quote: When Additional Costs May Apply
Your quote includes the water heater unit and standard installation for typical residential setups. However, every home is unique, and we want you to understand situations where additional costs might be necessary. Our free inspection will identify any of these needs before work begins.
🏗️ Code Compliance & Permits
Permit Fees
Cost Range: $50-$200
When Required: Most jurisdictions require permits for water heater replacement
What It Covers: City/county inspection to ensure safe installation
Code Updates
Cost Range: $150-$500
Common Requirements:
- Expansion tank installation (now required in most areas)
- Drip pan and drain line for units in living spaces
- Seismic strapping in earthquake zones
- Temperature & pressure relief valve discharge pipe updates
⚡ Electrical Modifications
Circuit Upgrades
Cost Range: $300-$800
When Needed: Switching from gas to electric, or upgrading to tankless electric
Includes: New breaker, proper gauge wiring, dedicated circuit
Panel Upgrades
Cost Range: $1,500-$3,000
When Needed: Older homes with insufficient electrical capacity
Common With: Electric tankless installations requiring 100+ amps
🔥 Gas Line Modifications
Gas Line Upsizing
Cost Range: $500-$1,200
When Needed: Tankless gas heaters require larger gas supply lines
Distance Factor: Cost increases with distance from gas meter
New Gas Line Installation
Cost Range: $1,000-$2,500
When Needed: Switching from electric to gas
Includes: Running new line from meter, shut-off valve, connections
💨 Venting System Changes
Power Vent Conversion
Cost Range: $300-$600
When Needed: No existing chimney or improper draft conditions
Includes: PVC venting, electrical connection for blower
Tankless Venting
Cost Range: $500-$1,500
Requirements: Special stainless steel venting, specific clearances
Complexity: Cost varies with distance to exterior wall
🏠 Structural & Access Issues
Difficult Access
Cost Range: $200-$500
Examples:
- Attic installations requiring reinforced platform
- Crawl space access with limited clearance
- Second floor or basement with narrow stairs
Platform or Stand Construction
Cost Range: $150-$400
When Needed: Code-required elevation in garages or flood zones
🔧 Plumbing Modifications
Pipe Replacement
Cost Range: $200-$800
When Needed: Corroded galvanized pipes, incompatible fittings
Includes: New shut-off valves, proper connections
Water Line Rerouting
Cost Range: $400-$1,000
When Needed: Moving heater location, switching to tankless
⚠️ Special Situations
Switching Fuel Types
Converting from electric to gas or vice versa typically adds $800-$2,000 due to new utility connections
Size Changes
Upgrading to a larger tank may require platform modifications and pipe adjustments ($300-$600)
Location Changes
Moving the water heater to a different area involves rerouting utilities ($500-$1,500)
Old Home Surprises
Homes over 30 years old often need multiple updates to meet current codes ($500-$1,500)
✅ How We Protect You
- Free Inspection: We identify all additional requirements before any work begins
- Written Estimate: Any additional costs are documented and approved by you first
- No Surprises: We won't proceed without your explicit approval on final pricing
- Honest Assessment: If your current heater just needs repairs, we'll tell you
- Code Expertise: Our technicians know local requirements and factor them in
The Bottom Line
Most standard replacements (same type, same location, up-to-code home) don't require ANY additional costs - even permits are included! However, upgrades, fuel switching, or older homes may need additional work. Our free inspection ensures you know exactly what's needed and the total cost before making any commitment.
Questions about your specific situation?
Call us at 502-901-3090 to discuss your home's unique needs.