Water Heater prices and installation

**dachd** · 01-14-2011, 11:10 AM

Hello All!

I'm looking at getting Bradford White GX-1-55S6BN...is $1,204 a good price? Here's a link: http://www.pexsupply.com/Bradford-Wh...Heater-Nat-Gas

Also, what should it cost, roughly to have this installed in place of my existing gas water heater, assuming no changes to venting, etc, just swapping them out?

Thanks in advance for your help!

**Gary Swart** · 01-14-2011, 11:51 PM

I did a quick Google check and this price seems to be reasonable for this heater. Installation prices will vary by location. And should include removal and disposal of the old heater. Water heater installation is not too difficult or time consuming if there are no plumbing or venting issues, but it will take two men due to the weight of the heaters. I'd suggest just calling around and inquiring, but don't expect a firm price over the phone. Plumbers have been screwed too many times when a "simple swap job" turns into a mafor project.

hj · 01-15-2011, 06:09 AM

TWO men to install a water heater? That would be a rarity/luxury, unless it is in a basement, which we have few of around here.

**ballvalve** · 01-15-2011, 11:35 AM

Your arms are long like an Orangatang? I have a few big moaks working, but ONE would be certain to dent, drop or bust off the drain valve alone.

In fact 2 guys just managed to rip out the outlet on a pressure tank during the haul.

The 1 guy big enough to schlep the heater usually can't hook it up right anyway.

What about a 96% efficient condensing rig? http://www.hotwater.com/products/residential/gas.html

**Gary Swart** · 01-15-2011, 10:33 PM

I admit that I am not the man I once was so I don't try to manhandle heavy and awkward things anymore. For that reason, I hired my new Rheem Power Vent installation. I was quite pleased that the company sent 2 men to get the heater into the house and onto the raised concrete slab where my heaters sit over a basin with a floor drain, about a 6" high slab in a corner. And yes, it is in a basement which are quite common where I live. It wasn't just to save my back, but also to avoid an accident that would damage the heater. Once in position, it was just a one person job, in fact I could easily have done it alone.