Click to return to the Buy Gas Appliances store home page Click to view your shopping cart Click for online help
Click to return to the corporate home page Click for Customer Service Click to read the Terms of Use for this site Click to read our Privacy Policy
Return to the store home page
View all product categories
Get help with product sizing
     Gas Log Sizing
     Water Heater Sizing
     Generator Sizing
View information for builders and developers
View information about the store
     Contact Energy Advisor
     Heating/Cooling Dealers
     Plumbers
     Distributors
View information for rebates


Buyer's Guide to Natural Gas Water Heaters - Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I tell what capacity (size) my current water heater is?
A. Look at your water heater for the label that says, "US Gallon Input." It will likely say, 40, 50 or 75 gallons. If your current water heater provides enough hot water, just order the same size as what you have.

Q. My current water heater does not provide enough hot water. What size should I go to?
A. If you have a 40 gallon, you should upgrade to a 50 gallon. If you have a 50 gallon, you should up to a 75 gallon. The below sizing chart should help you.

Q. What installation charges are involved in replacing my gas water heater with a new one?
A. If you are staying with the same size water heater, normal installation costs might run about $210.00. If you are going one size up, you will need to add $25.00 to this amount.

Q. Are there any new building codes I should be aware of before installing my new gas water heater?
A. Gas water heaters must now be 18" off the floor according to the State of Georgia plumbing code if the water heater will be installed in a carport, basement or room adjacent to either. A water heater stand is therefore recommended to ensure you meet code standards. The cost for the stand and installation is $55.00.

Q. Do you offer same day installation on natural gas water heaters?
A. We can arrange installation the same day, if you place your order online by 2:00 p.m. in areas where we install. When you place your order online, our system will ask for your address and let you know if installation is available in your area.

Q. I have an electric water heater now. Why should I switch to a natural gas water heater?
A. The main reason is energy cost savings. You'll save year after year on your utility bills from increased efficiency and a longer life of the appliance. Also, because natural gas water heaters recover their hot water faster than electric, you may be able to downsize to a smaller gas water heater and still get the same amount of hot water as you did with your electric. Because you will need to add venting for safety reasons, your installation costs will vary between $150-$500. Our installer will come out and give you an exact price. To help you off-set some of these costs, we offer $100 rebates on natural gas water heaters.

Household Size Gas Water Heater Size
5 or More People
Regular Demand
75 Gallon
5 or More People
High Demand
100 Gallon
3 to 4 People
Regular Demand
50 Gallon
3 to 4 People
High Demand
75 Gallon
2 People or less
Regular Demand
40 Gallon
2 People or less
High Demand
50 Gallon

Use this chart to select the size (gallon capacity) water heater that would best fit the hot water needs of the individual/family. Note: Usage may vary depending on individual/family habits.

Regular Demand - Based on a home having a washing machine and an automatic dishwasher.

High Demand - Based on a home having teenagers, whirlpool tubs, spas or oversized baths.

Helpful tip: Selection of an appropriate water heater size should take into consideration future family needs.


Store Home | Product Categories | Store Information | Gas Advantage | Sizing Help | Builder/Developer Info | Rebate Info

©2010 , a subsidiary of AGL Resources Inc. All rights reserved.
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy