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Why is this article on the cost of water heaters essential in 2025?
An increase in installation requests in Greater Montreal
By 2024-2025, the number of requests for water heater replacement has risen sharply, mainly due to the aging of the Quebec housing stock and new energy efficiency standards. This pressure led to an increase in installation price and delays with certain non-certified suppliers.
Understanding the factors that influence pricing
The total cost of a project can vary depending on several factors: the tank capacity (40, 60, or 80 gallons), the location of the water heater, any required electrical or plumbing modifications, and the choice of model (standard or tankless). That’s why it’s crucial to understand what influences the final quote.
When should a water heater be replaced in Quebec?
A worn-out or end-of-life water heaters can cause more than just a lack of hot water. It can lead to higher electricity bills, costly water leaks or even a back-up in the basement. Here's how signs to watch out for to find out if it's time to change your water heater in Greater Montreal.
Average life of a water heater
The majority of residential water heaters in Quebec have a average service life of 10 to 12 years. After this period, the risk of failure increases considerably, especially if the unit has not been maintained regularly or if the water in your area is hard.
Signs that replacement is necessary
- Pressure or temperature drop hot water
- Abnormal noises (rattling, hissing) coming from the reservoir
- Visible leak at the base of the water heater
- An appliance that is over 10 years old, even without visible symptoms.
- Accumulation of rust or sediment in water
Replace before failure: a smart investment
Waiting for a complete breakdown can end up costing much more—especially if it leads to a flood or water damage. By planning a preventive replacement, you benefit from lower rates, peace of mind, and often better energy efficiency thanks to a newer model.
Water heater installation and replacement prices in Québec
Wondering how much a water heater installation or replacement costs in Quebec in 2025? Prices vary depending on several factors, including the type of unit (electric, gas, tankless, or heat pump), the capacity, the complexity of the installation, and local code requirements.
In Greater Montreal, the average rates typically include travel fees, labor, removal of the old water heater, and installation of the new unit. However, additional charges may apply for drain pans, electrical upgrades, or gas venting modifications.
Table of average purchase and installation prices
| Type | Capacity | Average price (CAD) | Service life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric water heaters | 40 to 60 gallons | 900 $ to 1,500 $ | 10 to 12 years |
| Gas water heaters | 40 to 60 gallons | 1,400 $ to 2,200 $ | 10 to 12 years |
| Tankless water heaters | On request | 2,500 $ to 3,500 $ | 15 to 20 years |
| Thermodynamic water heaters | 60 to 80 gallons | 3,000 $ to 5,000 $ | 12 to 15 years |
What prices generally include
Delivery of the new device- Disconnection of the old water heater
- Complete installation with standard fittings
- Check sealing and compliance
- Removal and recycling old equipment
Delivery of the new device
Possible additional costs
- Pipe modification evacuation
- Installation of a drip tray (often required in Quebec)
- Electrical upgrades (dedicated socket, circuit breaker)
- Additional ventilation for gas models
Tips for saving on installation
- Compare several estimates in your area
- Choosing the right model to household consumption
- Avoid peak demand periods (e.g. winter)
- Taking advantage of assistance offered by Quebec Energy Transition
Note: Prices may vary depending on the borough, access to the water heater and technical conditions on site.
Service life and signs that a water heater needs replacing
What is the average lifespan of a water heater in Québec?
What is the average lifespan of a water heater in Québec?The average lifespan of a residential water heater in Quebec is between 8 and 12 years, depending on the model, water quality, and maintenance. Tank-style models, such as standard 40- or 60-gallon electric water heaters, are the most common. Brands like Giant, Rheem, and AO Smith offer warranties ranging from 6 to 12 years, which is a good indicator of their durability.
Signs that it's time to replace your water heater
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- Water lukewarm or not hot enough A loss of performance often indicates an end-of-life heating element or excessive limescale build-up.
- Leaky tank or leaks around the base A clear sign of corrosion or cracking. A leak can quickly cause major damage.
- Rusty or cloudy water Rust: may indicate rust inside the tank or large quantities of sediment.
- Unusual noises Clicking, popping or bubbling sounds indicate mineral deposits that reduce efficiency.
- Age of water heater If your appliance is more than 10 years old, it's a good idea to have it inspected to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
💡 Tip: Check the date of manufacture
Most water heaters have a serial number that contains the month and year of manufacture. For example, a number like C142001569 may indicate March 2014 (letter C = 3rd month, 14 = year).
Installing a water heater in Quebec: key steps and advice
How long does it take to install a water heater?
In general, a certified plumber puts 2 and 4 hours to remove the old water heater, install the new one, make the connections, bleed the air from the system and test the system. All this can be done in a single visitoften in the morning or before the end of the day.
Typical steps for compliant installation
Power or gas cut-off- Complete emptying of the old tank
- Disconnecting water pipes and power supply
- Removing and safely disposing of old water heaters
- Installing the new water heater (level, orientation, anchoring)
- Connecting pipes and electrical system
- Air purge + leak test + start-up
Power or gas cut-offDo I need a permit to replace a water heater?
In most cases in Quebec, no municipal permit is required for the simple replacement of a residential water heater, as long as the new unit has the same or lower capacity as the one being replaced. However, a permit may be required in the following cases:
- from energy source conversion (e.g. electric to natural gas)
- from major change of location or electrical circuit modification
- installation in a flood risk zone (non-conforming basement)
🔧 Tip:
Allow a minimum clearance of 18 to 24 inches around the tank to facilitate future inspections and ventilation.
Cost of a water heater repair: intervention or partial replacement
Common repairable faults (thermostat, anode, valve)
Before considering a full replacement, some common issues can be resolved at a lower cost — such as a faulty thermostat, a worn-out anode, or a leaking pressure relief valve. These components can often be replaced without draining or changing the entire unit.
When repair is no longer profitable
If your water heater is over 8 to 10 years old or shows multiple issues at once, repairs may become inefficient or costly. For example, a rusted tank, multiple leaks, or persistently rusty water are all signs that a full replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run.
Average price for a quick home repair
Here are the average costs observed in Québec in 2025 for the most common water heater repairs :
| Repair type | Average price (CAD) | Response time |
|---|---|---|
| Thermostat replacement | 150 $ to 220 $ | 1 to 2 hours |
| Replacing the magnesium anode | 180 $ to 250 $ | 1 to 2 hours |
| Replacing the safety valve | 120 $ to 180 $ | Less than 1 hour |
📌 Tip:
An annual inspection by a certified professional can extend your water heater’s lifespan and help you avoid recurring repair costs.
Water heater replacement: 2025 rates and schedule
All-inclusive packages vs. hourly rates
Most plumbers in Montreal offer flat-rate packages for water heater replacement. These packages typically include delivery, installation, basic connections, and removal of the old unit. Other professionals use an hourly rate, ranging from $90 to $150 per hour, with parts billed separately.
✅ Tip: To avoid unexpected costs, always request a detailed quote that includes all fees.
Time required for a residential replacement
The standard replacement of a residential water heater takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on site accessibility, electrical compliance, and the type of unit installed. For a typical tank model, the job is often completed within the same half-day.
40 gal vs. 60 gal water heater price comparison
| Capacity | Average price (including installation) | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 40 gallons | 900 $ to 1,200 $ | 1 to 3 occupants |
| 60 gallons | 1,100 $ to 1,600 $ | 4 to 6 occupants |
💡 Tip:
A oversized water heater unnecessarily increases your purchase and heating costs. A model tailored to your needs guarantees long-term comfort and savings.
Popular water heater models and prices
Brands recommended by certified plumbers
In Quebec, certain brands of residential water heaters are known for their reliability, energy efficiency, and availability of replacement parts when repairs are needed. Here are the most popular ones in 2025:
-
- Giant - Made in Quebec, it's the #1 choice of plumbers for standard installations (40 or 60 gallons).
- Rheem - Known for its durable models and high-end options, including tankless models.
- AO Smith - Popular for its hybrid and thermodynamic versions, as well as its compact models.
- Bradford White - Often used in rental properties for its robustness and longevity.
Price comparison by water heater type
Here is a overview of average rates (including installation) depending on unit type and capacity :
| Model | Capacity | Average installed price | Key benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giant Electric Standard | 40 or 60 gallons | 900 $ to 1,300 $ | Local manufacturing, affordable parts |
| Rheem Tankless | On request | 2,500 $ to 3,500 $ | Save energy, save space |
| AO Smith Hybrid | 60 to 80 gallons | 3,200 $ to 4,500 $ | Integrated, high-efficiency heat pump |
| Bradford White Gas | 40 or 60 gallons | 1,600 $ to 2,300 $ | Perfect for quick replacement in multi-unit buildings |
📌 Tip:
Choosing a brand that’s locally distributed, such as Giant, makes maintenance easier and speeds up service response times in case of a breakdown.
Grants and tax credits for energy-efficient water heaters
Financial assistance available in Quebec in 2025
Replacing a conventional water heater with a energy-efficient model can make you eligible for provincial and federal subsidies. In 2025, several programs will support households wishing to reduce their energy consumption :
- Heat Green program - Offered by Transition énergétique Québec, it provides up to 650 $ for replacing a fossil-fuel system with an electric or thermodynamic unit.
- Incentives from certain electricity suppliers (e.g. Hydro-Québec) for the purchase of connected smart water heaters or integrated heat pumps.
- RénoVert tax credit (depending on budget) - If relaunched in 2025, this credit could cover up to 20 % of eligible expenses.
Eligibility requirements
To benefit from these subsidies, your installation must meet certain requirements:
- The device must be new, ENERGY STAR® qualified or certified equivalent.
- It must be installed by a recognized professional (e.g. CMMTQ member plumber).
- You must provide a proof of purchase, payment and installation.
How to apply for a grant
Here are the general steps for receiving your financial assistance:
- Choose a eligible model (e.g. thermodynamic, tankless).
- Have the unit installed by a certified professional.
- Bringing together all invoices and certificates.
- Fill in the online form on the Quebec Energy Transition.
💡 Tip:
Keep digital and paper copies of all documents. Some grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Areas served for water heater installation and repairs
Fast service in Montreal, Laval, North Shore and South Shore
Thanks to our network of CMMTQ-certified plumbers, we cover the entire Greater Montreal area, including the following sectors:
- Montreal (all boroughs)
- Laval
- Longueuil, Brossard, Saint-Hubert
- North Shore: Terrebonne, Blainville, Repentigny
- South Shore: Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Châteauguay, La Prairie
Our local partners are available 7 days a week, often offering same-day service, equipped for quick installations or emergency repairs.
Certified plumbers available in less than an hour
In densely populated areas like Rosemont, Le Plateau, Villeray, or Verdun, a technician can be at your door in under 60 minutes, even in the evening or on weekends.
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Contact us here - we probably have a professional on hand to help.
💧 Replace your water heater with confidence with SOS Plombiers
An aging water heater can lead to leaks, high electricity bills, or worse — water damage. Thanks to our network of CMMTQ-certified plumbers across Greater Montreal, we quickly connect you with a reliable professional for a safe installation at the right price.
Our partners use high-performance models, installed according to current standards, with fast service, personalized advice, and free quotes.
📞 Need a quote or urgent service? Call us or fill out the form to be immediately connected with an expert in your area — whether you're in Montreal, Laval, the South Shore, or the North Shore.
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