Water Heater Flushing Cost Breakdown
The cost of flushing a water heater includes materials and labor. The cost of materials will vary depending on the type of water heater. Labor costs depend on the type of plumber, tank size, and the time it takes to complete the job.
Materials
The material cost to clean a water heater ranges between $20 and $140, depending on the tank type. For a tank-type water heater, the main materials to budget for are:
Garden hose: $15–$50
Bucket: $5–$10
For a tankless water heater, you'll need the following:
Tankless water heater flush kit (comes with a circulation pump, hose, and bucket): $100–$120
Cleaner (3 gallons of distilled white vinegar): $3–$6 per gallon
Labor
Plumbers usually charge by the hour for their services. The typical rate is between $45 and $200 per hour, depending on the experience level of the plumber and the work needed. Some plumbers may charge you a flat fee rather than an hourly rate for relatively small jobs.
Where the plumber charges an hourly rate, some might have a minimum charge, usually equivalent to a minimum number of hours, regardless of how small a job is. Ask your plumber if they have a minimum charge and bundle together other small jobs around your home to maximize both your time and money.
Other Cost Factors for Flushing a Water Heater
In addition to materials and labor, there are other more minor cost factors that affect your project total.
The cost of a flushing service by a plumber can also vary based on whether the plumber performs additional tasks on top of flushing. Some extra tasks that could increase the total cost of the service include the following:
Descaling the tank
Visually inspecting the heater for leaks, loose connections, or rust and performing the necessary repairs
Inspecting electrical and heating components and the pressure valve to make sure they’re working correctly
Replacing the anode rod
Single Visit vs. Regular Maintenance
The cost to flush a water heater can also vary depending on whether it's part of an annual maintenance contract or a one-time visit.
With a maintenance plan, you pay an annual fee (of about $200 or more) or a monthly fee, and in exchange, a pro will perform routine checks on your heater throughout the year at regular intervals. They may perform preventive measures like flushing during these checks.
You'll also get other benefits, including priority service in case your heating system breaks, discounts on repairs, or even completely free repairs, depending on the nature of your plan. While signing up for a maintenance plan might cost more than a one-time visit, the extra benefits could be worth it.
Plumber’s Level of Expertise
The average hourly rate for a plumber can vary depending on the level of expertise. Here are typical rates:
Apprentice: $45–$90 per hour
Journey-level: $70–$120 per hour
Master: $90–$200 per hour
The kind of plumber you hire depends on the nature of the project. If you need a flushing service, an apprentice or even a handyperson near you can handle the task. The average hourly rate for a handyperson is $55 to $75 per hour.
However, if your water heater requires extra checks and repairs, such as replacing blown or damaged electrical components, replacing the pressure relief valve, sealing leaks, and so on, you might need to hire a journeyperson or master plumber whose hourly rates are higher.