Top Water Heater Installation Companies in Virginia Beach, Virginia Ranked

When your water heater fails, it's more than an inconvenience-it disrupts your daily routine and comfort. Choosing the right water heater installation or replacement is a critical decision for your Virginia Beach home, impacting your energy bills, available hot water, and long-term maintenance. This guide will help you understand your options, from traditional tanks to modern tankless systems, the specific considerations for our coastal climate, and the professional installation process, so you can make an informed choice for reliable hot water.

Sean Fixes Johns Plumbing

417 Hobart Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Sean Fixes Johns Plumbing is a locally owned plumbing company serving Virginia Beach, VA, as well as Norfolk and Chesapeake. The business offers a range of plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, water heater installation, sewer line repair, leak detection, and gas line installation. They use modern camera and detection equipment to diagnose and repair sewer line issues efficiently. With over 30 years of experience, Master Plumber Sean Yelton leads the team in providing plumbing solutions for both residential and commercial customers. The company also offers 24-hour emergency plumbing services to address urgent needs.

5.0

616 Reviews

Blair's Plumbing Repair & Drains

337 Thalia Dr, Newport News, VA 23608

Blair's Plumbing Repair & Drains is a family-run plumbing company serving Virginia Beach, VA, and the Hampton Roads Peninsula communities. They provide a wide range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, tankless water heater service for Rinnai and Navien models, sump pump and sewage pump repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, and toilet and garbage disposal repairs. The company emphasizes thorough whole home plumbing inspections and detailed explanations to help customers understand their plumbing systems. Founded in 2020 by Army veteran Justan Blair, the business combines skilled plumbing work with a focus on customer education and service.

5.0

382 Reviews

Richardson Plumbing Co

1469 Butts Station Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23320

Richardson Plumbing Co is a family owned and operated plumbing business serving Virginia Beach, VA, and the Tidewater area since 1988. They provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services including water heater installation and repair, tankless water heater services, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and gas line installation. The company is licensed and insured, with a Master Plumber and Master Gas Piper on staff, and offers backflow testing and plumbing inspections as part of their expertise.

5.0

342 Reviews

RPG Plumbing Services

5305 Cleveland St STE 102, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

RPG Plumbing Services is a plumbing company serving Virginia Beach, VA, and the Hampton Roads area. Since 2015, they have provided a range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, and toilet repair. Their team holds Class A Contractor licenses, Master plumber and gas fitter certifications, and specialized training such as Navien certification, enabling them to handle both simple and complex plumbing issues. RPG Plumbing Services offers 24/7 emergency plumbing support to address urgent problems at any time.

5.0

201 Reviews

A1 Sewer & Drain Plumbing & Water Heaters

545 S Birdneck Rd Suite 202-E, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

A1 Sewer & Drain Plumbing & Water Heaters provides a wide range of plumbing, sewer, and gas line services in Virginia Beach, VA. Their offerings include sewer camera inspections, water heater installation and repair, drain cleaning, leak detection, repiping, and gas line installation. The company uses advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify issues and delivers customized solutions for homes and businesses. With nearly four decades of experience since 1987, A1 Sewer & Drain is equipped to handle complex plumbing challenges and offers 24/7 emergency services to the local community.

5.0

147 Reviews

See more providers in Virginia Beach, VA

Understanding Your Water Heater Options

Modern water heaters are not one-size-fits-all. The right choice for your home depends on your household size, energy goals, and budget. In Virginia Beach, homeowners typically choose from three main types of systems: traditional storage tank, tankless (on-demand), and hybrid heat pump models. ¹

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heaters

The most common type found in homes, a storage tank water heater keeps a reservoir of water continuously heated and ready for use. These units are generally the most affordable option upfront and are available in both electric and gas models. ² However, they have a limited supply of hot water (which can run out during back-to-back showers) and can be less energy-efficient due to "standby" heat loss, where energy is used to keep the tank water hot even when you're not using it. ³

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters

A tankless water heater heats water directly as it flows through the unit, providing a potentially endless supply of hot water. These systems are compact, wall-mounted, and highly energy-efficient because they eliminate standby heat loss. ¹ They also tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional tanks. The trade-off is a higher initial purchase and installation cost, and the unit's flow rate must be properly sized to meet your home's simultaneous hot water demands (like running a shower and dishwasher at the same time). ⁴

Hybrid (Heat Pump) Water Heaters

Hybrid water heaters are a highly efficient electric option that works like a reverse air conditioner. They pull heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water in the tank, using significantly less electricity than a standard electric resistance model. ⁵ While they have a higher upfront cost similar to tankless units, they can be the most cost-effective to operate over time. It's important to note they work best in installed locations that remain in a consistent temperature range (typically 40°F - 90°F) and have adequate space for air circulation. ³

Why Professional Installation is Non-Negotiable

Installing or replacing a hot water heater is a complex job involving plumbing, electrical, and potentially gas connections. It is not a DIY project. Professional installation ensures:

• Safety: Correct handling of gas lines, water pressure, and electrical wiring to prevent hazards like gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or flooding.
• Code Compliance: Virginia Beach has specific plumbing and building codes. A licensed professional will secure necessary permits and ensure the installation meets all local regulations. ⁶
• Optimal Performance: Proper sizing, placement, and connection are critical for efficiency, longevity, and meeting your household's hot water needs.
• Manufacturer Warranty: Most manufacturers require professional installation to keep the warranty valid.

The Professional Installation Process Explained

When you hire a qualified plumber for your water heater replacement, you can expect a structured process designed for safety and quality. ⁷

1. Assessment and Selection: A technician will assess your home's needs-considering the number of bathrooms, occupants, and fuel type (gas or electric)-to help you select the correctly sized and typed unit. ¹
2. Shut-Off and Drainage: The technician will safely turn off the power (electricity or gas) and the cold water supply to the existing unit. They will then connect a hose to drain the old tank completely. ⁶
3. Disconnection and Removal: Once drained, the old unit is disconnected from the water lines and venting (for gas models) and removed from the premises.
4. Preparation and New Installation: The installation area is prepared, which may involve updating pipes or fittings. The new water heater is positioned, leveled, and connected to the water supply, pressure relief valve, and, if applicable, gas line and venting. ⁷
5. Filling, Testing, and Activation: The tank is filled with water, and air is bled from the lines. The power or gas is restored, and the system is thoroughly tested for proper operation, temperature settings, and any leaks. ¹
6. Cleanup and Review: The work area is cleaned up, and the technician will often review the new system's operation and maintenance tips with you.

Cost Considerations for Virginia Beach Homeowners

The total cost of a water heater installation project in Virginia Beach varies widely based on the type of unit, the complexity of the install, and labor. Generally, labor can account for about 50% of the total project cost. ⁸

• Traditional Tank-Style: The unit itself can range from around $600 for a basic electric model to over $2,500 for a high-efficiency gas model. With installation, total costs typically range from $1,300 to $2,800+. ^{9 10}
• Tankless Systems: These units have a higher equipment cost, generally between $1,400 to $3,900+ installed. The installation can be more complex and costly if new gas lines or upgraded electrical service is required. ^{11 12}
• Hybrid Systems: Similar to tankless, hybrid heat pump water heaters have a high upfront cost, often comparable to or exceeding that of a tankless system installation.
• Additional Factors: The final price can be affected by the need for new piping, a new expansion tank, upgraded venting, permit fees, and the proper disposal of the old unit. ⁸

Virginia Beach's Coastal Climate and Your Water Heater

Living near the ocean brings unique maintenance considerations. The high humidity in Virginia Beach can accelerate corrosion and rust on metal components, including your water heater and its connections. ¹³

• Ventilation is Key: For gas models, ensuring proper venting is crucial to safely expel combustion gases and prevent moisture buildup around the unit.
• Anode Rod Vigilance: The sacrificial anode rod inside a tank-style heater is your first line of defense against tank corrosion. In humid, coastal environments, these rods can deplete faster and should be inspected regularly by a professional. ¹³
• Proactive Maintenance: Scheduling annual or bi-annual maintenance checks can help identify minor issues like sediment buildup (which reduces efficiency) or early signs of corrosion before they lead to a full system failure or leak. This is especially valuable for preserving the lifespan of your investment in our climate.

Signs You Need a Replacement

How do you know it's time for a new hot water heater installation? Watch for these warning signs:

• Age: If your traditional tank unit is over 10-12 years old (or a tankless is over 20), it's nearing the end of its expected service life.
• Rusty Water: Discolored, rusty hot water from your taps can indicate internal tank corrosion.
• Insufficient Hot Water: Running out of hot water faster than usual often signals significant sediment buildup or a failing heating element.
• Rumbling Noises: Loud popping or rumbling sounds are caused by sediment hardening at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and damaging the tank.
• Leaks: Any moisture or pooling water around the base of the unit is a clear sign of failure. Address this immediately to prevent water damage.

Frequently asked questions

Sources