Do electric water heaters waste electricity?

• <div><p>If you have a tank-type electric water heater, it runs regularly to keep the water at the desired temperature. If you live in a home where you don’t use much hot water, it could seem wasteful to run power to heat water that you’re using infrequently. You could save some power by using a smaller tank, insulating the tank, or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-turn-up-water-heater-temperature.htm">lowering the temperature of the water heater</a>. </p></div>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Harbinger, NC

Q: What size circuit breaker does a water heater need?

• <div><p>Most standard residential water heaters, which are typically around 40 gallons and use 240 volts and between 3,500 and 5,500 watts, require a 30-amp, two-pole circuit breaker. For smaller, point-of-use water heaters using 120 volts and between 1,500 and 3,000 watts, a 30-amp breaker is also often adequate. However, some models may have different needs; units that use more watts than average may require a 40-amp breaker, while smaller units might only need a 20-amp breaker. Newer, tankless, or more energy-efficient models can also require a higher amperage. Having the correct breaker size is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so it's best to consult a licensed electrician to determine the specific needs of your water heater.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to install or replace a water heater?

• <div><p>The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.</p></div>

Q: Can you ask a pro what’s the best breaker size for your water heater?

• <div><p>If you are having trouble determining the right breaker size for your water heater, it is a great idea to contact an electrician near you to help. They can help you determine the best option for your home and install the circuit breaker for you, ensuring that you have all the proper permits and that your circuit breaker won&rsquo;t overload, which could lead to fire and other damage.</p></div>

Q: How often should a gas water heater be replaced?

• <div><p>You should replace your gas water heater when it&rsquo;s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-replace-gas-water-heater.htm">replace your water heater</a>. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Harbinger, NC

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Harbinger, NC 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 Harbinger, NC 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 January 08, 2025

Reviewed in January 2025
Abdul and Cyrus replaced by gas water heater swiftly and expertly. The shut off valves also needed to be replaced, as well as some other parts. They were patient, kind, informative, and kept everything very clean during the entire service call. To add to my nightmare, the main water shut off...
2020 Drain Clean & Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2021
I am an out of state condo owner. My tenant called when water heater broke, it was memorial day weekend. I had no idea what to do. Pipeworx was recommended on home advisor. I called and received prompt ,courteous service. The area where the heater was was small so he had to get a second one...
PipeWorx
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Reviewed in March 2021
Tidewater Pro Air is amazing at everything they do! Quality work, phenomenal customer service and fair prices make them #1 in my book. Not only did they replace our hvac system, they fixed a problem with our tankless hot water heater. I cannot recommend Tidewater Pro Air enough - they are...
Tidewater Pro Air
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Reviewed in March 2021
Mike came in with in very short time, assessed the situation, did the prep work and replaced leaking heater. Wow. We were back in order within two hours. Highly Professional and with a personal touch - - he called back the next day to see if all was ok. We appreciated meeting and working with...
McGee and Sons, The Gentleman Plumber
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Reviewed in February 2021
They had no one that would come out to repair my system. Outside air temp. was 35 degrees and inside my home was 58 degrees. Had to get my neighbor to repair my heat system. This company led me on for two days. They said I could use their reimbursement program. They have gotten some one out in...
Choice Home Warranty
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Reviewed in October 2020
Needed a new water heater installed ASAP. They came the same day and within 2 hours we were read to go. Would definitely use them again.
All-State Plumbing
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Reviewed in March 2020
Went beyond the plumbing fix and fixed the water-damaged cabinet itself.
Bear Mechanical, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2019
Excellent. I contacted the company on several occasions. First I needed a new water heater, and a smaller capacity water heater was recommended instead of a much more expensive higher capacity. Works great and no issues with water demand. Then I had some issues with exterior faucets, and they...
R Blivens Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2019
I arrived at my vacation house and found the hot water heater not working. As I arrived on the Christmas holiday weekend and had guests arriving I was concerned about the repair. I called Absolute Plumbing (I have used them in the past). I received an immediate call back from Sara. She arranged...
Absolute Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in December 2018
Installed a new shower after removing old jacuzzi tub. Also made repairs to hidden water damaged floor. Excellent work with no delays. Highly Recommended.
Ohana Plumbing and Home Repair
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Find Water heater pros in Harbinger

Russell's American Mechanical

4.7(

1,072

)

Water Heater - Install or ReplaceTankless Water Heater - RepairTankless Water Heater - Install

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Pro advised that an electric tankless water heater was not the best route to go for my home. American Mechanical Installed a new 50 gallon water heater instead."

60 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by94%of homeowners

Tankless Water Heater - InstallWater Heater - Install or ReplaceWater Heater - Repair or Service

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Prompt reply, great work, set up an appointment and arrived on time. Worked to update plumbing to support the new water heater. I would highly recommend them."

Response time1 day

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by87%of homeowners

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

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Still waiting for parts after 7 days. TOMORROW IS A WEEK.. We have no water heater. My wife recently had surgery and needs higene.can we replace the water heater???? PLEASE"

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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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 Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"We pay yearly but we have this is included with our rental property. They are pretty good on most things. We had a hot water heater replaced and they did an excellent job on that. They are very quick on their response. They dont come out here. It is all done on the internet. I just like the idea that one time service charge is so much better than trying to hiring someone to come in. It is more about convenience. It pays for itself."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Lockhart plumbing & drain cleaning

4.0(

)

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

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

We are a local plumbing company service if the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We are a smallChristian, family oriented, company rooted in the community dedicated to providing quantity affordable services.

Recommended by77%of homeowners

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Solar Tek Energy of North Carolina, Inc.

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - Install

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

SolarTEK Energy of North Carolina is one of the largest solar integration companies in the Eastern United States and has been helping to make solar energy a reality in American homes since 1992

+17

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Wilsons Home Improvements

New to Angi

Tankless Water Heater - RepairWater Heater - Install or ReplaceWater Heater - Repair or Service

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Wilsons Home Improvements is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. 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.

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Handyman

New to Angi

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

Serving Harbinger, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Our commitment to quality is evident from the beginning to the completion of your home improvement project. We will add beauty and value to your home. We are dedicated and we offer the most top quality work. You can be assured you're in good hands with Christopher working on your project. Call him today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you\n

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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

Most standard residential water heaters, which are typically around 40 gallons and use 240 volts and between 3,500 and 5,500 watts, require a 30-amp, two-pole circuit breaker. For smaller, point-of-use water heaters using 120 volts and between 1,500 and 3,000 watts, a 30-amp breaker is also often adequate. However, some models may have different needs; units that use more watts than average may require a 40-amp breaker, while smaller units might only need a 20-amp breaker. Newer, tankless, or more energy-efficient models can also require a higher amperage. Having the correct breaker size is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so it's best to consult a licensed electrician to determine the specific needs of your water heater.

The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.

If you are having trouble determining the right breaker size for your water heater, it is a great idea to contact an electrician near you to help. They can help you determine the best option for your home and install the circuit breaker for you, ensuring that you have all the proper permits and that your circuit breaker won’t overload, which could lead to fire and other damage.

If you have a tank-type electric water heater, it runs regularly to keep the water at the desired temperature. If you live in a home where you don’t use much hot water, it could seem wasteful to run power to heat water that you’re using infrequently. You could save some power by using a smaller tank, insulating the tank, or lowering the temperature of the water heater.

You should replace your gas water heater when it’s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to replace your water heater. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.

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