Water heater thermostat replacement cost

8 years ago

My 4 years old AO Smith (GNR 50 200) Gas powered Water Heater stopped working. The status light went off and I tried to re-light it and it worked but the status light is now blinking 4 times which indicates that water temperature is too high which is definitely not the case. I tried two times after waiting for couple of hours and then finally called the local service provider. He said that the gas valve thermostat is most likely defective and it would cost $900+ including parts and labor. Is this reasonable?

He also mentioned that the most common problem is thermostat stopped working and especially the white ones. Then he pitched that you could also replace the whole heater given the most common problem is thermostat going often and cost atleast a grand and provided estimate of $2700 installed.

He didn't have the right part so work was not done. Since my heater is still in warranty, I need to call AO Smith to get replacement part but their office is closed and am sure it would take several days to get the part. I checked online and the part is anywhere from $150 - $250. So $600 labor is reasonable to install the thermostat?

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Comments (3)

mike_home
8 years ago
I have owned several traditional gas hot water heaters and never did a repair. Once the tank starts to leak I have had it replaced. I don't know what is wrong with this design. If you look on Amazon reviewers have complained about having to make this repair more than once.

I don't think $900 to install a free thermostat is reasonable. I also don't think a new installation of a hot water heater should be $2700. Get some more quotes.

If you are handy you may be able to do this repair yourself. A hot water heater should be trouble free for 10-15 years. I get the perception this is a flawed design, or there is an installation problem.
sks74 thanked mike_home
User
8 years ago
On electric element water heaters thermostat failure is actually quite common and is a DIY project for many of us.

Thermostat thinking water temp is high results in heater not feeling the need to heat the water => cold water.

I am not familiar with this gas unit, but I'd do a little research on youtube... bet someone has a video showing what's involved.

Happy New Year!
sks74 thanked User
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sktn77a
8 years ago
Call a plumber and ask what his hourly labor charge is. Then tell him you need your HWH thermostat changed and that the part is being supplied under warranty. It can't take more than 1-2 hours to do this. So I guess you're looking at $100-$200.
sks74 thanked sktn77a