Plumbing Costs — 2026 Price Guide
Water heaters, pipes, and plumbing fixtures
Plumbing work keeps your home's water systems functioning properly. Simple repairs cost $150-$500, while major work like water heater replacement runs $800-$3,000.
Most homeowners spend $300-$1,000 on plumbing annually for maintenance and repairs. Large projects like whole-house repiping cost $4,000-$10,000. Always hire licensed plumbers for gas and main line work.
Plumbing Projects
Plumbing Cost FAQs
How much do plumbers charge per hour?
Plumbers charge $75-$150 per hour in 2026. Master plumbers and emergency calls run $100-$200+. Most plumbers have minimum service charges of $100-$200 regardless of time spent.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
Water heater replacement costs $800-$1,800 for tank units and $2,000-$4,000 for tankless. Price includes unit, installation, and disposal. Gas and electric have similar installed costs.
How much does it cost to unclog a drain?
Simple drain clearing costs $100-$300. Snaking a main line runs $200-$500. Hydro jetting costs $350-$600. Excavation for major blockages can exceed $1,000-$3,000.
How much does it cost to repipe a house?
Whole-house repiping costs $4,000-$10,000 for an average home. Price depends on size, accessibility, and pipe material (PEX is cheapest, copper most expensive). Often done during major renovations.
When should I replace my water heater?
Replace water heaters at 10-15 years old, when repairs exceed $500, or with signs of failure (rusty water, leaks, inconsistent temperature, strange noises). Don't wait for catastrophic failure.