They say, “Good things take time.” But when it comes to hot water, most of us don’t want to wait.
As a licensed HVAC technician with over 15 years of field experience, one of the most common questions I get from homeowners is: “How long does it take to install a water heater?” Whether your water heater suddenly quit or you’re upgrading to a tankless model, knowing the timeline can help you plan better and reduce downtime.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about the installation timeframes for different types of water heaters, the factors that influence installation duration, and some real-world scenarios we’ve encountered at High Comfort.
Key Takeaways
- Standard tank water heater installations usually take 2 to 3 hours.
- Tankless water heater installations can take 6 to 10 hours or more.
- Switching fuel types (like electric to gas) or moving locations increases the timeline.
- Hiring experienced, licensed professionals ensures safety and faster execution.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Hot Water Heater?
A typical tank-style hot water heater installation usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, assuming:
- The existing unit is being replaced with a similar model.
- The plumbing and venting connections are compatible.
- No major code upgrades are needed.
Most of our clients at High Comfort in Michigan are back to enjoying hot showers the same day.
“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” — H. Jackson Brown Jr.
And preparation is exactly what shaves hours off the install time.
How Long Does It Take to Install a New Water Heater in a New Location?
If you’re adding a new water heater in a different spot—say, relocating it to the garage or utility room—installation may take 8 to 12 hours, or even extend into a second day.
That’s because it involves:
- New plumbing lines
- New venting
- Potential electrical work
- Drywall patching or framing modifications
This type of project is more complex and should be handled only by experienced installers to avoid safety hazards and code violations.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heater installations are more involved and generally take between 6 to 10 hours, depending on:
- Whether it’s a retrofit or a new install
- The type of fuel (gas or electric)
- If new venting or a pressure relief system is needed
Tankless systems require precise installation, especially when dealing with gas lines or high-amperage circuits. The payoff? Endless hot water and higher energy efficiency.
Real World Scenario
In a recent High Comfort installation in Hazel Park, it took our team just over 8 hours to retrofit a traditional 50-gallon tank into a modern gas tankless unit, including all venting and code compliance updates.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Gas Water Heater?
If you’re asking, “How long does it take to install a gas water heater?” the answer depends on the existing gas line setup. For standard replacements:
- Expect 2 to 4 hours for installation.
- Add time if the gas line needs to be rerouted or upgraded.
We always perform a gas pressure test and a leak check post-installation, which adds a bit of time but ensures safety and peace of mind.
Things to Consider
- Permits: Some municipalities require permits and inspections.
- Water Quality: Areas with hard water may benefit from water softeners or pre-filters.
- Access: Tight utility rooms or basements can slow down removal and replacement.
- Old Unit Disposal: We handle this for our customers, but it takes time to safely disconnect and remove the old unit.
Bonus Point: Don’t Forget the Inspection
Post-installation inspections are often needed for insurance and warranty validation. Plan for an extra 30–60 minutes if your local code mandates an inspection.
Final Thoughts – How Long Does it Take to Install Hot Water Heater
If you’re thinking about upgrading your system and asking, “How long does it take to install water heater units these days?” the answer lies in the type of heater, complexity of install, and the professionalism of the HVAC team.
At High Comfort, we bring 15 years of experience to every job, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction. Whether you need a tank or tankless system, we’ll get the hot water flowing quickly—and correctly.
How Long Does it Take to Install New Water Heater – FAQs
How long does it take to install gas water heater in winter season?
Installing a gas water heater in winter takes 2 to 4 hours. Delays may occur if pipes are frozen or access is limited due to weather.
What is the labor cost to install a hot water heater in Michigan?
Labor costs to install a hot water heater range from $300 to $600. Prices may vary based on location, complexity, and type of heater.
Why does it take so long to install a water heater in Michigan?
Water heater installation can take long due to tasks like draining the old unit, updating plumbing, or dealing with code compliance. Unexpected issues like corrosion or tight spaces can add time.
Is it difficult to install a water heater by DIY?
Yes, installing a water heater DIY can be difficult due to plumbing, gas/electric connections, and local code requirements. Mistakes may lead to leaks, safety hazards, or fines.
How much does Home Depot charge to install a water heater in summer season?
Home Depot typically charges $50–$150 per hour for labor to install a water heater, with most installations taking 2–3 hours, so you’ll pay around $100–$450 for summer installation labor.
