Homeownership has its many perks but it also has its fair share of responsibilities, including getting your water heater inspected to check the integrity of the gas lines, water shut-off valves, and most importantly venting to ensure carbon monoxide won’t build up. If you suspect an issue with your water heater, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a licensed professional.

Luckily, a water heater inspection isn’t expensive and it’s always cheaper than water heater and plumbing repairs.

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How much does a water heater inspection cost?

The national average cost of a water heater inspection is $99 but prices could be higher or lower than that depending on a few factors. Here’s what could affect the cost of your water heater inspection:

Type of water heater: There are five different types of water heaters including conventional, tankless, gas, electric, and solar-powered. Some inspectors will charge a higher fee to inspect nonconventional water heaters.

You’re getting a plumbing inspection: Your water heater inspection may be included in your plumbing inspection and be free of charge!

Includes a water heater flush: If your water heater inspection includes a tank flush, you’ll be charged more for that service.

There are a few additional costs you’ll need to factor in if you’re getting a water heater inspection as part of a real estate transaction:

Type of inspection	Description	Average cost
Water heater inspection for home purchase	It’s a good idea to get a home inspection before purchasing a home	$250 to $400
Water heater permit	If an unlicensed person installed the water heater, you’ll have to have it permitted by an inspector.	$99
VA or FHA loan	If you're using a VA or FHA loan to purchase a home, you’ll need to have an appraisal inspection.	$400 - $1,200

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Having your water heater inspected can catch costly plumbing problems and will ultimately save you money. Homeowners can use it as a selling point while homebuyers can use a failing water heater in a counteroffer.

MORE: How to make a counteroffer after a home inspection

Do I need a water heater inspection?

While a water heater is always a great idea for regular maintenance, to ensure there’s no carbon monoxide building up in your home, and before a real estate transaction, you may need an inspection if you installed the water heater yourself or if the lender requires it.

You should familiarize yourself with the local water heater inspection codes and ordinances before installing your own water heater and carefully review the terms and conditions of your mortgage agreement if you're purchasing a home. Don’t worry, we’ll cover the national guidelines for VA and FHA loans.

Water heater inspection for VA and FHA loan

If you are using a VA or FHA loan, you’ll need a water heater inspection if there is an issue with the water heater or if the lender requires it.

The appraiser will require a water heater inspection if they notice:

Low hot water pressure

Unpleasant smells coming from the water heater

Discolored water

The water heater makes strange noises

Leaking water

Irregular water temperatures

Visible signs of corrosion

If your water heater doesn’t pass inspection, you may have to get the water heater repaired before you are approved for a loan. You could also experience higher insurance premiums!

MORE: When to walk away after a home inspection

Signs of failing water heater

It’s recommended you get an annual water heater inspection for regular maintenance. However, you may need to have your water heater inspected ahead of schedule if you notice any of the following:

There’s never enough hot water: Don’t have enough hot water to finish a shower? It may be the result of sediment build-up or a faulty component.

Water pooling around the heater: Water leaking is a telltale sign your hot water heater tank needs to be inspected and repaired.

Brown or rusty water: Most homeowners think discolored water means there’s an issue with the water supply, but more often than not it means your hot water heater has begun to corrode.

Decreased water pressure: Low water pressure could be due to mineral buildup, bent distribution lines, or even improper installation.

Weird noises coming from the water heater: If you hear banging, cracking, or popping noises you could be dealing with an overheated water heater and should call a professional right away.

You should have your water heater inspected if you suspect there’s an issue with the water heater to avoid serious plumbing problems or having to replace it altogether.

MORE:

water pipe burst

Water heater repair costs

The average cost of water heater repairs can range anywhere from $92 to $1,650 depending on the extent of the damage. If you’re fixing common issues like a failed thermocouple, gas control valve, or blown fuse, your repair costs will be minor.

But major repairs or replacing the entire water heater will be much more costly. Luckily, annual inspections and regular water heater maintenance can help prevent those major repairs.

Here’s what you need to do to maintain your water heater:

Check the water heater every two months for leaks and corrosion

Switch the water heater to vacation mode when you leave town

Flush the water heater every six months to prevent the build-up

Drain the tank and remove the sediment

While water heater maintenance may seem like one more thing to keep track of, it can prevent costly repairs and catch dangerous carbon monoxide build-up in your home.

How to hire a water heater inspector

No matter the reason you're having your water heater inspected, you’ll need to hire a trained water heater or plumbing inspector you can trust.

Ask your real estate agent, friends, and family for water heater inspector or plumber recommendations.

Make sure they are qualified. Certified plumbers and water heater installers have been trained to inspect and evaluate existing systems to ensure they are operating properly.

Check reviews. You’ll want to read the customer reviews to know what kind of business you're actually dealing with.

Request a quote. Find three companies and request a quote from each to find a water heater inspector at a fair price.

You’ll get a comprehensive report from a certified professional and peace of mind when you hire a trained water heater inspector.

How to save on homeowners insurance

Water heater inspection and maintenance can be time-consuming and expensive–especially when they result in repairs and the dreaded replacement. Luckily, you can cut homeownership costs by using the Jerry app to shop for

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