I'm trying to figure out where to buy a replacement hot water heater. Is it a good idea to get one from a big box store like Lowe's or Home Depot, or would I save more money by going through a local plumbing company? I'd really appreciate any advice. By the way, I live in the eastern U.S.
4 Answers
Are you planning on installing it yourself or hiring a plumber? If you’re doing it, go with a supplier who offers good post-purchase support. But, if a plumber's taking care of the install, let them decide because they’ll know what works best.
Generally, the hot water heaters from supply houses tend to be of better quality than those in big box stores; they're often heavier too. But the biggest factor is whether you’re prioritizing price or better long-term value. No matter which you choose, make sure to keep up with maintenance, like changing the anode rod and flushing the tank to extend its lifespan.
Are you going with gas or electric? I’ve bought some electric units from home improvement stores and handled the installation myself without too much trouble. Just a tip: moving the old unit with water still in it can be a pain; using a 2-wheeler really helps! Also, checking out some installation videos can be super useful.
In New England, the cost for a typical gas or electric 40-50 gallon water heater installed by box stores ranges from $1300 to $1500. I spent $1800 on a hybrid model last year, and honestly, I’m not happy with it. It runs non-stop, blows cold air, and hasn't saved me money like I hoped. If I could redo it, I’d just go with a standard Rheem 50-gallon gas model instead. Hindsight is truly 20/20!