American Water Heater Pros

The work · Installation & replacement

Water Heater Installation in Merrimack, Nashua, and Southern NH

Whether you're replacing a failing water heater or upgrading to a more efficient system, our licensed team ensures your new unit is installed safely, up to code, and optimized for your home's hot water needs.

Call anytime — emergencies get answered, day or night.

(603) 440-8113 A real person answers · Not a call tree

Types of Water Heaters We Install

We install every type of water heater available, and because water heaters are our sole focus, we know the strengths and ideal use cases for each one.

Traditional Tank Water Heaters: The workhorse of American homes. Tank water heaters store a reservoir of preheated water so it's ready when you need it. We install 40, 50, 75, and 80-gallon models from Bradford White, Rheem, and A.O. Smith. Available in gas, propane, and electric. Lowest upfront cost. 8-12 year typical lifespan. Straightforward 2-4 hour replacement.

Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, no storage tank required. Tankless systems deliver endless hot water with 20-30% energy savings. We specialize in Navien NCB and Rinnai RU series installations. Unlimited hot water supply. Wall-mounted, space-saving design. 20+ year lifespan. 20-30% energy savings vs. tank.

Heat Pump Water Heaters: The most energy-efficient option available. Heat pump water heaters pull warmth from surrounding air and transfer it to your water. Ideal for NH homes with unfinished basements or garages. Up to 60% energy savings. NHSaves rebates available. Doubles as basement dehumidifier. Federal tax credits may apply.

Point-of-Use Water Heaters: Small, dedicated units installed directly at a specific fixture, like under a kitchen sink or in a bathroom. Perfect for adding hot water to a remote fixture without running new supply lines. Compact 2-6 gallon units. Instant hot water at the fixture. Electric, no gas line needed. Great for additions and outbuildings.

Why Professional Installation Matters

A water heater isn't a weekend DIY project. Improper installation can lead to gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, water damage, voided warranties, and code violations. Here's why hiring a licensed professional is essential.

Code Compliance: NH building codes require specific venting, clearances, and safety features. We know the codes inside and out and ensure every installation passes inspection.

Safety First: Gas connections, venting, and temperature/pressure relief valves must be installed correctly. A mistake can mean gas leaks, carbon monoxide, or a dangerous pressure buildup.

Warranty Protection: Most manufacturer warranties require professional installation by a licensed plumber. DIY or unlicensed work can void your warranty entirely.

Optimal Efficiency: Proper sizing, correct thermostat settings, and efficient piping layout ensure your new water heater operates at peak efficiency, saving you money for years to come.

Our Installation Process

From your first call to your first hot shower, we make the process simple, transparent, and hassle-free.

1. Free Assessment: We evaluate your home's hot water needs, existing infrastructure, and budget to recommend the right solution.

2. Recommendation: We present your options, tank, tankless, or heat pump, with transparent pricing and no pressure to upsell.

3. Old Unit Removal: We carefully disconnect and remove your existing water heater, including proper disposal of the old unit.

4. Professional Installation: Code-compliant installation with proper venting, gas/electrical connections, and all required permits pulled.

5. Testing & Cleanup: We test the entire system, verify safe operation, walk you through the new unit, and leave your space spotless.

Transparent Pricing

We believe in upfront pricing with no hidden fees. The price we quote is the price you pay. These ranges include the unit, labor, permits, and disposal of your old water heater.

Tank Water Heater: $1,400-$3,000 (40-80 gallon, gas or electric). Tankless Water Heater: $2,100-$5,600 (Includes gas line/venting modifications). Heat Pump Water Heater: $1,800-$4,500 (Before available rebates).

What's Included in Every Installation: Water heater unit; All labor and installation; Required permits and inspection; Removal and disposal of old unit; New supply connections; Pressure relief valve and discharge pipe; Gas leak testing (gas units); System testing and walkthrough; Manufacturer warranty registration; Our workmanship guarantee.

Water Heater Installation in New Hampshire: What You Should Know

Installing a water heater in New Hampshire comes with specific considerations that a generalist plumber might overlook. As specialists who work exclusively with water heaters in this region, we factor in everything from NH building codes to our unique climate.

Cold inlet water temperatures matter. New Hampshire's groundwater comes in around 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly colder than states further south. This affects tankless water heater sizing dramatically. A tankless unit rated for 8 GPM in Georgia might only deliver 5 GPM in New Hampshire because it has to work harder to raise the water temperature. We size every tankless installation specifically for NH conditions.

Permits are required. The State of New Hampshire requires a plumbing permit for all water heater installations. As a licensed Master Plumber (License #3613), we handle the permitting process and ensure your installation meets current NH building codes. This protects your homeowner's insurance coverage and is required for resale compliance.

Energy rebates are available. Through the NHSaves program, New Hampshire homeowners may qualify for rebates on energy-efficient water heaters, especially heat pump models. We can help you understand which rebates apply to your installation and assist with the application process.

Basement installations are common. Most NH homes have basements, which is actually ideal for heat pump water heaters (they pull heat from ambient air and help dehumidify the space). We have extensive experience with basement installations and understand the venting, drainage, and clearance requirements specific to below-grade work.

Sound like your basement? Call (603) 440-8113 — straight diagnosis, written quote, no pressure.

Fair questions

Installation & replacement questions, answered straight

How long does a water heater installation take?

A standard tank water heater replacement typically takes 2-4 hours. If we're converting from tank to tankless, or installing a heat pump water heater, it may take 4-8 hours depending on the required modifications to gas lines, venting, or electrical. We'll always give you a clear time estimate before starting.

Do I need a permit for water heater installation in NH?

Yes. New Hampshire requires a permit for water heater installations. As a licensed NH Master Plumber (#3613), we pull all necessary permits and ensure your installation meets current building codes. This protects your home insurance coverage and ensures the work is done safely.

What size water heater do I need?

For tank water heaters: 1-2 people typically need a 40-gallon unit, 3-4 people need a 50-gallon, and 5+ people should consider a 75 or 80-gallon tank or a tankless system. For tankless, we size based on simultaneous hot water demands and inlet water temperature. NH's cold groundwater temperature (around 45-50 degrees F) is an important factor in sizing.

What's included in your installation price?

Our quoted price includes the water heater unit, all labor, required permits, removal and disposal of the old unit, new supply connections, pressure relief valve and discharge pipe, and a final testing and walkthrough. No hidden fees, the price we quote is the price you pay.

Will you remove and dispose of my old water heater?

Yes, removal and disposal of your old water heater is included in our installation price. We properly drain the unit, disconnect it, and haul it away for recycling.

Do you install both gas and electric water heaters?

Yes, we install all fuel types: natural gas, propane (LP), and electric water heaters, including heat pump models. If you're considering switching fuel types (for example, from electric to gas), we can assess the feasibility and cost of running new gas lines.

Cold shower to hot water — one call.

(603) 440-8113

You'll talk to the shop. Not a national installer program.

Emergencies · Answered day or night

Emergencies · Answered day or night Call the shop · (603) 440-8113