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Water heater repair cost
Common water heater repairs — heating elements, thermostats, anode rods, igniters — run $150–$600. A service call is usually $75–$150 and is often credited toward the repair if you proceed.
Price at a glance
| Item | Typical |
|---|---|
| Job price range | $150–$600 |
| Common variants | Diagnostic/service call: $75–$150, often credited toward repair |
| Labor share | $75–$150/hr |
| Permit | Rarely (like-for-like parts) |
| Duration | 1–3 hours |
National job price data from the ee.ltd cost database, 2026 edition.
What drives the price
- Heating element vs thermostat vs igniter
- Tank vs tankless
- Sediment flush needed
- Age of unit — over 10 years, replacement math often wins
DIY verdict
Element/thermostat swaps possible for experienced DIYers on electric units
Other plumbing job costs
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