Get matched with top water heater pros in Backus, MN

Q: How long does a tankless water heater last?

• <div><p>A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.</p></div>

Q: Is it better to vent a gas water heater out of the wall or roof?

• <div><p>Venting a gas water heater out of the roof is preferable in most cases. Heated exhaust gases naturally rise, so a vertical vent pipe is efficient. If you&rsquo;re trying to vent through a pipe exiting a wall, the angle of the pipe may be more horizontal than vertical, making the venting system less effective. If you go through a wall, you may need to add a fan to ensure a successful expulsion of the gases outdoors.</p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to replace a water heater?

• <div><p>The average cost to replace a water heater is around $1,325, with a typical range of $900 to $1,800 for a standard replacement. The final price depends on the type of heater (tank vs. tankless), its size, fuel source (gas or electric), and the complexity of the installation. A simple one-to-one replacement will be on the lower end of the cost spectrum. However, if you are switching from one type of heater or energy source to another, you can expect labor costs to be significantly higher due to the extra work involved. It's also worth considering that while gas and electric heaters may have similar upfront costs, their long-term operating costs can differ based on local utility prices.</p></div>

Q: Can you vent a gas water heater out the side of the house?

• <div><p>You can and should vent the gas from your hot water heater to the outside of your home. Traditionally, these gases were vented back to other gas appliances, like stoves or furnaces, but many jurisdictions have outlawed this practice due to the risks it provides. </p><p>Most water heaters today use atmospheric venting that exhausts the gas out of the home through a pipe.</p></div>

Q: Can a water heater be replaced in a day?

• <div><p>Yes, a water heater can be replaced in a day and can take between two and three hours to install from start to finish. Even if you encounter extra tasks that need to be completed, the job can still be completed in one day.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Backus, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Backus, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Backus, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

Last update on October 09, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Just and FYI if you are thinking of calling any company to do work on your property DO NOT call North Country Construction LLC out of Pequot Lakes MN. Owner of company if Jayden Cadias.We had him install a kitchen floor which cost $9300 and the tiles are separating. We made him aware of this,...
North Country Construction LLC
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Reviewed in July 2025
Steamboat Plumbing's owner Luke Ewert exceeded my expectations! He was incredibly helpful, friendly, and professional, taking extra time to ensure I understood my new water softener's operation, including navigating cycles and settings. He also walked me through shutting down my cabin's...
Steamboat Plumbing
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Reviewed in July 2024
We had a house fire and needed the condenser moved to the new house. They were working on it in a couple days, way sooner than expected. Very professional and good at what they do. This is my second time having them work on my ac/heating, will call them for all my needs in the future.
Lake Shore Heating and Cooling, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
Justin was on time and very friendly respected our home cleaned up after job was done and made sure we knew how to use the water softener before he left
Range Water Conditioning
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Reviewed in December 2021
Swenson Electric does great work. The electricians are friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended.
Swenson Electric
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Reviewed in September 2021
Same day service to replace water heater;Professional .friendly,and timely.
Water Heaters Now, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2021
They work very well with the customer and help you determine what the needs you have of your pool service
Sunburst Pool Maintenance and Repair
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Reviewed in July 2018
Despite assurances from owner and son that their paint finish on cabinets would not come off even if kitchen used frequently and wiped down regularly, paint has peeled, worn thin, and chipped off even in areas that are not used. Owner repainted some of the cabinet doors first year, but did not...
Crow Wing Cabinets
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Reviewed in December 2017
Jim was very prompt, fit us in quickly to his schedule. Price for installing water softener was very reasonable compared to other quotes we had received. We would definitely use him again!
Finken, Inc.
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Find Water heater pros in Backus

Aquarius Home Services

4.6(

260

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1987

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Paul did excellent work on replacing our pressure tank. Also, redid plumbing pipes by water heater."

Response time12 hrs

Response rate100%

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"He was very nice to talk with and repaired our washing machine. He even helped sweep the water out."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For BusinessTankless Water Heater - Repair+3 more

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Steamboat Plumbing's owner Luke Ewert exceeded my expectations! He was incredibly helpful, friendly, and professional, taking extra time to ensure I understood my new water softener's operation, including navigating cycles and settings. He also walked me through shutting down my cabin's plumbing system for the fall, allowing me to video record the process. Luke's clear explanations, patience, and personal touch made the experience seamless. His dedication to customers is impressive. I appreciated the opportunity to chat with him about his background and family, which added a nice touch to the service. I highly recommend Steamboat Plumbing and Luke Ewert for exceptional service, expertise, and customer care. I will definitely use Steamboat Plumbing again in the future!"

Response time1 day

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Lakes Area Water Works

4.8(

)

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For BusinessTankless Water Heater - Repair+5 more

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Venting a gas water heater out of the roof is preferable in most cases. Heated exhaust gases naturally rise, so a vertical vent pipe is efficient. If you’re trying to vent through a pipe exiting a wall, the angle of the pipe may be more horizontal than vertical, making the venting system less effective. If you go through a wall, you may need to add a fan to ensure a successful expulsion of the gases outdoors.

The average cost to replace a water heater is around $1,325, with a typical range of $900 to $1,800 for a standard replacement. The final price depends on the type of heater (tank vs. tankless), its size, fuel source (gas or electric), and the complexity of the installation. A simple one-to-one replacement will be on the lower end of the cost spectrum. However, if you are switching from one type of heater or energy source to another, you can expect labor costs to be significantly higher due to the extra work involved. It's also worth considering that while gas and electric heaters may have similar upfront costs, their long-term operating costs can differ based on local utility prices.

You can and should vent the gas from your hot water heater to the outside of your home. Traditionally, these gases were vented back to other gas appliances, like stoves or furnaces, but many jurisdictions have outlawed this practice due to the risks it provides.

Most water heaters today use atmospheric venting that exhausts the gas out of the home through a pipe.

Yes, a water heater can be replaced in a day and can take between two and three hours to install from start to finish. Even if you encounter extra tasks that need to be completed, the job can still be completed in one day.

The Backus, MN homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
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How to Hire a Water Heater Installation Pro
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Who Can Install a Water Heater In Your Home?
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Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.