I am really just trying to find out about labor costs when installing a 30 gallon electric hot water heater. I am being charged $800 for hem to install an electric water haeater, one other place was going to charge me about $700 for 6 yeatrr warranty. Am I being totally overcharged? My water heater is very old and in a closet and I think they may have difficulty in getting it out. I was wondering if that is where the difference is as the other company that was going to charge me $700 did not come out to see it.
Thanks for your help
Angela

Well anyway, that is about the going rate. You can somewhat estimate what is going on. I found a 6 yr 30 gal electric for about $216 at Lowe's so I called it $250 with parts. Take (800-250)/4 and (700-250)/4 and you get some idea of labor rates between $120 and $140 per hour. Not unreaonable.

Remember two people are required for part of the job. Getting the water heater out and the new one in position. There is also disposal that has to be factored in. So, 2 people and 2 hours isn't so bad.

The guy that came out to estimate also has to be compensated for his time. He also has a better idea of what is involved. The difference is about 12% which isn't too bad.

Warranty plays a part. A tank with a 6 yr warranty is the same as a tank with a 12 year warranty. It's the same heater. Only the warranty costs more. It's based on failure rate.