Hot Water Tank Installation & Replacement in Langley & Surrey

On average, a standard residential hot water tank replacement in the Lower Mainland costs between $1,200 and $2,600. The final price depends on the tank size (40, 50, or 60 gallons), the fuel source (gas vs. electric), and any required upgrades to venting or piping to meet current British Columbia safety codes.

We typically recommend the “50% Rule”: if a single repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replacement is the better investment. If your tank is over 10 years old, it is structurally nearing the end of its life, and a replacement is safer and more cost-effective than frequent, expensive repairs.

The most urgent warning sign is pooling water at the base of the tank, which signals an internal fracture. Other critical signs include rusty or metallic-smelling water, loud rumbling or popping noises (caused by hardened sediment), and an age of 12 years or more. Note that many BC insurance providers will not cover water damage from tanks older than 10–12 years.

Yes. Modern ENERGY STAR® certified tanks and Hybrid Heat Pump models can reduce energy consumption by up to 60%. While the upfront cost is higher, the investment is typically offset within a few years through lower utility bills and available CleanBC or FortisBC rebates.

Gas water heaters generally have a faster recovery rate, meaning they can heat water more quickly for back-to-back showers. Electric tanks are often cheaper to install initially if gas venting isn’t present, but they may result in slightly higher monthly utility costs depending on current BC Hydro rates.

A standard (atmospheric) gas tank vents exhaust naturally through a vertical chimney. A power-vent model uses an integrated electric blower fan to push exhaust out of a side wall via PVC piping. Power-vent models are often required in modern homes where a traditional chimney is not accessible.

In British Columbia, any gas-fired appliance installation must be performed by a licensed gas fitter to ensure safety and code compliance. Even for electric tanks, professional installation is highly recommended to ensure the pressure-relief valve (T&P valve) is correctly calibrated to prevent dangerous pressure build-up.

A professional water heater replacement typically takes 2 to 4 hours. This includes draining and removing the old unit, positioning and connecting the new tank, and performing a full multi-point safety check on gas lines, venting, and water connections.

If you frequently run out of hot water or want to reclaim floor space, a tankless system is an excellent upgrade. While the initial installation is more complex, the “on-demand” nature eliminates standby energy loss and provides an endless supply of hot water for large families.