Get matched with top water heater pros in Windom, MN

A larger heater requires a larger breaker—unless there’s one already installed. The longer answer to this question is more nuanced. Do you place demands on the heater at the same time as running other heavy-duty appliances like ovens and washing machines? Do you live in an older home that may not have considered the higher electrical demands we have now? Breakers need to be sized at 125% of the load. To find that load, you should call a local electrical pro.

The amount of time it takes to replace an electric water heater will depend on the skill level of the individual who is replacing it. For example, if you replace it yourself–and you don’t have much experience–you can expect the project to take a full day. 

However, if you have a certified plumber or water heater contractor install your new water heater, it can take as little as 2 to 3 hours.

Any item that can hold on to moisture and encourage mold growth should be discarded and replaced following water damage. Upholstered items, such as armchairs and couches, and soft items, such as mattresses, usually must be thrown away once they've taken on a lot of water. Soft furniture is difficult to dry out, creating an inviting environment for mold.

You may also need to replace hardwood furniture following water damage if you're unable to fully dry it out. If you have appliances and electronics that have been fully submerged in water, particularly sewage, you'll need to replace those, too.

In most municipalities, a license is not mandatory for water heater installation or replacement. However, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed plumber or water heater installer to handle the work. Licensed installers are far less likely to make a mistake during the installation, which means paying for the experience decreases your risk of a leak and other issues. You can use our state licensing tool to find out if a contractor you’re considering in your area holds a plumber’s license.