Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
Water Heater Repair Cost in Boston [2025 Data]
Normal Range: $399 - $1,280
The national average hot water heater repair cost in Boston, MA is $801, with most repairs ranging between $399 and $1,280. A pro can help determine the price of your specific repair.
How we get this data
JinOdin / Adobe Stock
JinOdin / Adobe Stock
Highlights
With Boston's cost of living close to 50% above the national average, homeowners will need to budget accordingly for water heater repairs.
With repairs ranging anywhere from $155 to $1,995 for various problems, homeowners should weigh a water heater's age and repair history against the cost for a full replacement.
Water heater repairs can only be conducted by licensed plumbers in Boston.
With a cost of living nearing 50% above the national average, Boston homeowners are used to paying premium rates for repair services. The average cost for water heater repair in Boston is $801. However, homeowners in the metro area might expect to pay anywhere from $399 to $1,280. Overall, the final cost for this project is determined by the extent of the repairs needed. Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect to pay to get your water heater working properly again.
Water Heater Repair Cost Factors
Most water heater repair pros in Boston determine costs for this project by combining hourly labor rates with the cost(s) for any replacement parts needed. While the cost to get your water heater running smoothly again can be below $200 when a pro simply needs to tighten a valve or swap out an inexpensive part, more comprehensive repairs that involve replacing major components can cost closer to $2,000.
Water Heater Repair Cost by Part
As with any appliance, water heater repair costs vary based on the part you need. Typical water heaters have more than a dozen parts, ranging in size and cost. Take a look at some part estimates below, which don’t include the labor rate to replace them.
| Water Heater Part | Average Cost to Repair |
|---|---|
| Cold water supply valve | $25–$475 |
| Dip tube | $110–$125 |
| Overflow pipe | $250–$900 |
| Pressure relief valve | $300–$800 |
| Drain valve | $90–$320 |
| Cold water inlet | $220–$560 |
| Sacrificial anode rod | $195–$350 |
| Thermostat | $50–$425 |
Each water heater component serves a unique function. Many small parts cost $50 or less, but your total could reach the hundreds with the labor prices. Still, this is more affordable than a full water heater replacement, which typically costs between $850 and $1,800.
Water Heater Repair Cost by Service
Water heater repair prices range from simple DIY fixes under $20 to more complex problems that can cost hundreds. The following issues occur in both electric and gas heaters. If you have a different type of water heater—like a heat pump vs. tankless water heater—you could be on the hook for additional repairs.
| Water Heater Repair Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Fixing a leak | $80–$300 |
| Replacing pressure relief valve | $200–$250 |
| Cleaning and flushing | $250–$300 |
| Routine maintenance | $225–$500 |
Repair Costs by Water Heater Type
Lukewarm water coming out of your shower could indicate several issues, such as a thermocouple problem in a gas unit or a heater element failure in an electric unit. Costs vary based on your style because they require different parts and expertise to fix. The two main categories are gas and electric water heaters.
Gas Water Heater Repair Costs
Gas water heater repair costs come from pilot light problems, thermostat issues, or a failed thermocouple. Each displays different symptoms with varying water heater repair prices that go with it.
| Gas Water Heater Part | Function | Average Cost to Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Gas burner | Creates heat | $195–$275 |
| Pilot assembly | Lights gas burner | $155–$400 |
| Gas valve | Controls gas flow | $250–$600 |
| Blower | Fans exhaust | $225–$395 |
Electric Water Heater Repair Costs
A few problems are unique to electric water heaters. These involve tripped breakers, faulty heater elements, and bad thermostats.
| Electric Water Heater Part | Function | Average Cost to Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Heating element | Transfers heat to water | $175–$300 |
| Thermostat | Regulates temperature | $150–$300 |
| Electrical distribution system | Housing for direct electrical currents | $175–$425 |
Water Heater Pro Costs
A local water heater repair pro in Boston must be licensed by the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters in order to work on this task. On average, hourly rates for Boston plumbers range from $74 to $200. For more complex repairs, you may need a master plumber charging closer to $125 to $200 per hour.
Does Replacing a Water Heater Increase Home Value?
A newer, energy-efficient water heater can generally increase a home's value in Boston by 1.5%. ENERGY STAR models offer the highest return on investment. If you're noticing signs water heater is going out on a model that was installed more than 15 years ago, a full replacement is generally a better investment than attempting a repair.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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