
Homeowners often open a browser, type “hot water heater replacement cost near me,” and hope for a quick answer. The truth is that local labor rates, material availability, energy codes, and project scope all influence the final figure. At CountBricks, we deliver real-time, voice-driven estimates that pull current supplier pricing in seconds, so you never rely on outdated national averages.
Across the San Antonio market and similar metro areas, CountBricks projects show these averages for a standard 50-gallon tank-style replacement:
• Entry-level electric unit: $1,050–$1,450 installed
• Mid-grade gas unit: $1,400–$2,100 installed
• High-efficiency condensing gas unit: $2,300–$3,200 installed
• Hybrid heat-pump electric unit: $2,600–$3,800 installed
1. Tank type and capacity – Larger or specialty units raise material cost.
2. Venting upgrades – Switching from atmospheric to power-vent gas can add $300–$600 in parts and labor.
3. Plumbing code compliance – Dielectric unions, expansion tanks, or seismic straps may be required by local inspectors.
4. Accessibility – Units in attics or tight closets increase labor hours and disposal fees.
5. Permitting – Municipal fees vary widely. CountBricks automatically inserts the correct amount for your ZIP code.
Real-time voice capture – Walk the site with your phone, describe existing conditions, and our AI populates line items instantly.
Live supplier feeds – We sync nightly with regional plumbing distributors, ensuring material allowances reflect today’s price, not last quarter’s.
Task-based labor rates – CountBricks calibrates labor by crew size, skill level, and city cost index so your “hot water heater replacement cost near me” is truly local.
Auto-generated documents – One tap exports a branded proposal, scope of work, and payment schedule ready for e-signature.
1. Voice record site details with the CountBricks mobile app.
2. AI detects heater type, venting, and rough-in specifics from your narration.
3. Material database selects compatible units and pricing within a 10-mile supplier radius.
4. Labor algorithm applies baseline crew hours, then adjusts for attic access, level changes, and disposal complexity.
5. Permit and inspection fees auto-populate using municipal data.
6. The system outputs a transparent line-item estimate and sends a PDF quote to the homeowner in under five minutes.
The Garza family’s 18-year-old gas heater failed unexpectedly. Using CountBricks, a contractor captured existing vent size and gas line footage in 90 seconds. The platform suggested a 50-gallon ENERGY STAR® unit, replacement vent kit, and code-required expansion tank. Total cost: $1,762. The homeowner approved on the spot and work began the next morning.
• Tankless units run $3,800–$5,400 installed because they require larger gas lines and specialized venting.
• Annual energy savings can be 20-35%, but payback typically exceeds eight years unless the home has high hot-water demand.
• CountBricks allows side-by-side running cost simulations, so homeowners see long-term ROI before committing.
• Schedule replacements in spring or fall when plumbers are less busy to avoid peak-season labor surcharges.
• Combine multiple plumbing tasks—such as softener installs or fixture upgrades—in one visit to reduce trip charges.
• Ask CountBricks to model utility rebates for high-efficiency units; these incentives can shave $150–$400 off your invoice.
Once the project is complete, simply mark tasks as done. CountBricks converts the estimate to an invoice, pulls actual purchase order totals, and reconciles labor hours. Homeowners can pay online, and you maintain seamless records for warranty calls.
If you’re still searching “hot water heater replacement cost near me,” stop guessing. Visit CountBricks.com/services, start a free trial, and experience instant, accurate residential cost data powered by live conversations.

A hot water heater swap can uncover surprises behind the drywall. CountBricks embeds conditional line items so contractors stay profitable and homeowners avoid sticker shock.
• Corroded shut-off valves that leak when disturbed
• Oversized draft hoods failing updated venting codes
• Insufficient combustion air in utility closets
• Aluminum wiring on older electric units requiring copper pigtails
Dynamic Checklists – While you voice-record, CountBricks asks clarifying questions: “Is the gas shut-off valve quarter-turn?” If the answer is no, it adds a replacement valve line item.
Blueprint Takeoffs – For whole-home renovations, upload the PDF plan. Our AI highlights water heater symbols, measures vent runs, and integrates costs into the master estimate.
Risk Pricing – Select a contingency percentage, and CountBricks spreads it proportionally across tasks. Clients see a single, transparent number rather than surprise add-ons later.
The Rivera family converted their detached garage into an accessory dwelling unit. An attic-mounted tankless heater required new Category III vent pipe. CountBricks identified the attic’s limited headroom during the takeoff and flagged the need for a 24-inch clearance panel. The $410 materials and extra labor were priced before the Rivera family signed—saving the contractor a potential budget bust and preserving client trust.
1. Log in at CountBricks.com/consultation to schedule a guided demo.
2. Bring a current project file—our team will build a sample water-heater estimate live.
3. Export the proposal and see how CountBricks can help you close jobs faster and protect your margins.
Accurate, transparent, and lightning-fast—CountBricks takes the guesswork out of “hot water heater replacement cost near me” and puts your residential construction business on autopilot.