Water Heater Installation & Repair in Salem, MA

A failing water heater rarely picks a convenient time. One morning the shower runs cold, or you notice a puddle spreading across the basement floor. When that happens, you need a plumber who can diagnose the problem fast, explain your options clearly, and get hot water flowing again—ideally the same day.

At Lausier Brothers, we’ve installed and repaired hundreds of water heaters across Salem, Beverly, Peabody, and the surrounding North Shore communities. Whether your 15-year-old tank finally gave out or you’re upgrading to a tankless system for endless hot water, we handle the entire process: removal, installation, permits, and testing.

Water Heater Services We Provide

Every water heater job is different. A family of five has different hot water demands than a retired couple. A 1920s colonial in Marblehead presents different venting challenges than a new construction in Danvers. We assess your specific situation before recommending a solution.

  • Tank water heater installation — 40, 50, and 75+ gallon models from Bradford White, Rheem, and A.O. Smith
  • Tankless water heater installation — Rinnai, Navien, and Noritz units with proper gas line sizing for optimal performance
  • Hybrid heat pump water heaters — Energy-efficient units eligible for Mass Save rebates up to $750
  • Water heater repair — Thermostats, heating elements, pilot assemblies, anode rods, T&P valves
  • Emergency water heater replacement  Same-day service when your unit fails unexpectedly

Tank vs. Tankless: Choosing the Right System

Tank Water Heaters

Traditional tank heaters store 40-75 gallons of hot water, ready when you need it. They cost less upfront ($1,200-$2,500 installed) and work reliably for most families. The tradeoff: once you deplete the tank, you wait 30-45 minutes for recovery. With proper maintenance, expect 10-15 years of service.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless units heat water on demand as it flows through. You never run out of hot water, and the compact design frees up floor space. The upfront cost is higher ($3,000-$5,500 installed), but they’re 30-50% more efficient and last 20+ years. Most tankless installations require upgrading your gas line—we include this assessment in every quote.

Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heaters

These units pull heat from surrounding air, using 60% less electricity than conventional electric tanks. Massachusetts homeowners can receive significant Mass Save rebates, making the higher purchase price much more manageable.

Warning Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention

  • Water temperature fluctuates or doesn’t get as hot as before
  • Rusty or discolored water—especially if only from hot taps
  • Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds from the tank
  • Water pooling around the base of the unit
  • Unit is over 10 years old

Water Heater Frequently Asked Questions

How long does water heater installation take?

Most tank replacements take 2-4 hours. Tankless installations typically require 4-8 hours depending on whether gas line upgrades are needed.

How much does a new water heater cost in Massachusetts?

Tank water heaters: $1,200-$2,500 installed. Tankless: $3,000-$5,500. Hybrid heat pump: $2,500-$4,500 before rebates. We provide free written estimates.

Do you offer emergency water heater service?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency service for water heater failures throughout Essex, Middlesex, and Suffolk counties.