Gas tankless water heater replacement cost in Detroit, MI
Installed, About 180,000–199,000 BTU (2–3+ bathrooms)
A typical tankless water heater (About 180,000–199,000 BTU (2–3+ bathrooms)) costs about $3,000 installed in the Detroit area, 7% above the national figure, because plumbers here earn a median $42 an hour against $31 nationally.
Prices by size in Detroit
| Size | Low | Typical | High | National typical |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| About 150,000 BTU (1–2 bathrooms) | $2,150 | $2,850 | $3,650 | $2,650 |
| About 180,000–199,000 BTU (2–3+ bathrooms) | $2,650 | $3,000 | $4,050 | $2,800 |
Local labor: what plumbers earn here
| Hourly wage | Detroit metro | United States |
|---|---|---|
| 25th percentile | $29 | $24 |
| Median | $42 | $31 |
| 75th percentile | $48 | $41 |
The Detroit market
In Detroit, the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) issues trade permits, and its FAQ says plumbing and furnace (mechanical) work need one. The plumbing fee schedule lists water heaters at $44 each plus a $73 non-refundable application fee. A current mechanical fee schedule was not found, so ask BSEED. Homeowners may apply for trade permits on single-family homes they own and occupy, while a contractor is required for multi-family dwellings and commercial property. After the work is done you request an inspection, then a Certificate of Acceptance validates the permit. Cold winters drive equipment here: EIA found furnaces are the main heat in 83% of Michigan homes, and gas heats water in 66%. Warren, Dearborn and the suburban townships each run their own building departments.
A gas tankless heater vents on its own, often through the rim joist, which can leave a furnace alone in an old masonry chimney. Ask whether the chimney needs a liner afterward. Michigan's cold incoming water in winter also reduces tankless flow, so ask how the unit was sized and what flow it delivers in February. Ask whether the gas meter and line can feed the burner while the furnace runs at the same time.
Permits in Detroit
| Permit for this job | Yes (inferred: plumbing permit application prices water heaters per unit; FAQ says plumbing/furnace work needs a BSEED permit) (source) |
|---|---|
| Fee | Plumbing: water heater $44 each plus $73 non-refundable application fee. Mechanical: current schedule not found (a 2010 form listed 'Homeowner Furnace Installation Permit $148' and 'Alterations to Existing Fuel Burner Furnace Installation $99'). |
| Who can pull it | Homeowner (single-family, owner-occupant with proof of ownership) or licensed contractor; contractor required for 2-family and up |
| Inspection | Yes |
Rebates in Michigan
HEAR: open with limits. HOMES: open with limits. Source: EGLE Materials Management Division, Energy Services, checked October 13, 2026.
What these programs cover, and other states
Other systems in Detroit
- Gas tank water heater
- Gas furnace
- Central air conditioner
- Heat pump (ducted, outdoor unit + air handler)
Gas tankless water heater cost in other metros
- Grand Rapids, MI
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Dallas, TX
- Houston, TX
- Atlanta, GA
- Washington, DC
Sources
- Detroit BSEED: frequently asked questions
- Detroit BSEED plumbing fee schedule
- Michigan EGLE: Home energy rebate programs
- EIA, 2020 RECS: Highlights for space heating in U.S. homes by state
- EIA, 2020 RECS: Highlights for water heating in U.S. homes by state
- EIA, 2020 RECS: Highlights for air conditioning in U.S. homes by state
- https://training.detroitmi.gov/sites/training.detroitmi/files/2018-05/mechanical_permit_application_-_new_0.pdf
- BLS OEWS May 2025, Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI (47-2152 plumbers)
- DOE Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters Final Rule TSD (Dec 2024), Table 8.2.6 (2023$)