Does Costco Have Hot Water Tanks? Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Model

Hot water is something we often take for granted – until we run out! Choosing the right hot water tank ensures you‘ll never have to endure an ice cold shower again. If you‘re in the market for a new residential water heater, you may be wondering: does Costco sell hot water tanks?

As your home improvement friend, I’m here to give you the inside scoop on all things hot water tanks at Costco. Whether you prefer gas or electric, need a 50 or 80 gallon size, or want to go tankless, we’ll explore your options together. I’ll provide plenty of insider tips and important data to help you shop smart.

Let’s get started!

Overview of Hot Water Tank Selection at Costco

The short answer? Yes, Costco does offer a great selection of hot water tanks for your home. In fact, their wide range of top brands, capacities, and fuel types makes them a popular spot for buying a new residential water heater.

Rather than a limited choice of models, Costco aims to provide you with multiple options to meet your household‘s unique needs. Let’s look at what they offer:

Types of Hot Water Systems Sold at Costco

• Gas storage tanks – These traditional tanks are heated by natural gas or propane. Costco carries tanks from 40-75 gallons.

• Electric storage tanks – Electric water heaters have heating elements to warm water. Available from 40-80 gallons.

• Tankless systems – On-demand tankless heaters provide endless hot water without a tank.

• Heat pump tanks – Highly efficient heat pump water heaters can reduce energy bills.

• Point-of-use mini tanks – Small electric tanks for remote sinks/areas of the home.

• Solar water heating – Renewable solar water heating systems offered at some locations.

Top Brands of Water Heaters at Costco

You can find hot water systems from leading manufacturers like:

• Rheem
• Bradford White
• A.O Smith
• Rinnai
• GE

Costco does the research for you to select reputable brands known for quality and reliability.

Hot Water Tank Sizes Available at Costco

One of your biggest decisions will be what tank capacity suits your household‘s demand. Costco stocks the most common residential sizes:

Standard Hot Water Tank Sizes

Size	Capacity	Best Suited For
40 gallon	151-180 liters	1-3 people
50 gallon	189-227 liters	3-5 people
60 gallon	227-303 liters	5+ people
80 gallon	303-379 liters	Large families

Factors like number of people, bathrooms, and usage habits determine right size. Our experts can advise on ideal capacity options.

Larger commercial sizes can be ordered on demand. But tiny 20-30 gallon tanks are not stocked.

Checking Inventory and Availability

The selection at your local Costco may differ from other warehouses. Before visiting, here’s how to check if your desired unit is in stock:

• Call the store directly to ask about availability

• Check the Costco website and search inventory by zip code

• Use the Costco app to see if your store has the model

• Visit the Plumbing department and speak to an employee

For special orders, allow 1-4 weeks for delivery. Protip: Selection is best in the springtime!

Costco Provides Professional Installation

Making sure your new tank is properly installed is critical. That‘s why Costco offers professional installation services at most locations.

Their licensed contractors will:

• Shut off water and gas, then drain old tank
• Disconnect and remove the outdated unit
• Install the new water heater with included parts
• Connect water, gas (if applicable), and electrical
• Test for leaks and ensure it is working correctly
• Clean up the work area

Standard Costco Installation Fees

Type	Starting at
Basic Install	$159
Complex Install	$250

Permits and extras like a leak pan cost more. Ask what’s included!

You Can Apply a Costco Shop Card to Installation

One of the best perks of buying your hot water tank at Costco is the shop card provided to help cover installation costs.

When you checkout with your new water heater, you‘ll receive a Costco Shop Card valued from $100 to $150. You can then redeem this card when paying your installer to lower the total bill.

It‘s like getting $100 off instantly! Every little bit saved helps.

Going With an Independent Installer

While Costco installation provides peace of mind, you can use any licensed plumber and still take advantage of the shop card.

Your existing contractor may offer a competitive rate. Just let them know you’ll be using the Costco card and to deduct the amount accordingly.

One tip: if you supply your own tank, arrange haul away of old unit since Costco includes this service.

Estimating Total Costs Beyond the Tank Price

There are some additional potential charges to keep in mind beyond just the base price of the water heater itself:

• Delivery Fees – Costco charges $79 for delivery unless waived currently.

• Installation Labor – Plumbers typically charge $150-$350 or more for tank install.

• Permits/Inspections – Your city may require permits adding $50-$100 to cost.

• Leak Pan – Required in some areas, usually $20-$45.

• Seismic Straps – Earthquake prone regions may need straps ($50-$150).

Factoring in these extras provides a more accurate cost estimate for budgeting this investment.

Provide Your Own Tank for Installation

Already bought a hot water tank from another retailer? No problem! Costco can still handle installing it for you.

Just let the contractor know you have the tank ready when booking service. As long as you pay the standard rates, they can install any properly sized residential heater.

For tankless systems, extra work like gas line or electrical upgrades may require a specialized plumber that Costco can recommend.

Tips for DIY Water Heater Installation

Looking to install your new hot water heater as a DIY project? Here are some pointers if taking the DIY route:

• Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Check for any needed permits or inspections
• Turn off water and electricity/gas before starting
• Have new hoses, valves, discharge tube on hand
• Watch online tutorials to understand the process
• Improperly installing risks major flooding – call a pro if uncertain
• Safely dispose of old tank according to local codes

Unless you‘re an experienced plumber, I always advise paying a professional to handle this vital task. It’s worth the peace of mind knowing it‘s done correctly.

Choosing the Ideal Capacity for Your Home

Selecting the proper tank size comes down to these key factors:

• Number of people in your household
• Number of bathrooms and showers
• Bathing habits like frequent long showers
• Use of low-flow or tankless fixtures
• Major hot water appliances like dishwasher

For example:

• 1-2 people, 1 bathroom = 30-40 gallon tank
• 3-5 people, 2.5 bathrooms = 50 gallon tank
• Large family of 6+, 3 baths = 60-80 gallon capacity

When in doubt, go larger rather than smaller for adequate hot water. Our experts can recommend the best size needs if you’re unsure. Getting the right tank capacity for your home‘s demand is key to satisfaction.

Gas vs Electric: Weighing Your Options

When it comes to gas vs electric water heaters, there are some key factors to consider:

Gas

• Often cheaper operational costs
• Provides continuous hot water
• Higher purchase price
• Requires gas lines

Electric

• Lower upfront cost
• No combustion or fumes
• Recovery and availability can be slower
• Limited sizes – usually only up to 50 gallons

Homes with natural gas lines may prefer gas water heaters for reduced monthly bills. While electric units have a lower initial price, their energy costs are typically higher.

My advice is to discuss fuel options with Costco’s experts based on your utility availability, usage needs, and budget to select between gas or electric. Going tankless also allows you to choose between gas and electric power.

Top-Rated Brands and Models to Buy at Costco

With so many brands and units to pick from, here are a few of the best hot water tanks highly rated by contractors and consumers:

Gas Storage Tanks

• Rheem Performance Platinum – Excellent mid-range model with durable Vitraglas lining.

• Bradford White Defender – Reliable, affordable option great for households with basic needs.

Electric Storage Tanks

• Rheem Professional Classic – Durable electric model with brass drain valves.

• AO Smith Signature Premier Hybrid – Technologically advanced heat pump unit using less energy.

Tankless Gas Heaters

• Rinnai Luxury RL94eN – Top rated mid-range condensing tankless with recirculation pump.

Leading brands like Rheem and Bradford White are known for quality engineering and long-term reliability. Consult Costco’s experts for recommendations on the right heater for your household.

Additional Hot Water Accessories Available

Along with heaters, Costco stocks parts and accessories for water heater installation and maintenance:

• Flexible stainless steel connector hoses
• Inlet and outlet valves
• Tank insulation blankets
• Drain pans
• Thermal expansion tanks
• Pipe insulation
• Earthquake straps
• Replacement anodes
• Temperature and pressure relief valves
• Vacuum relief valves
• Water heater pans

Purchasing needed accessories and parts together with your tank prevents extra trips back afterwards to complete the job.

The Bottom Line

In the hot water tank market, Costco stands out as an excellent source for residential water heaters. With their combination of:

• Huge selection of top brands and models

• Various fuel types, capacities, and configurations

• On-site experts to advise customers

• Competitive member pricing

• Add-on installation services

Costco aims to offer a one-stop solution for all your water heating needs. I hope this detailed guide gives you confidence to find the ideal tank for your home.

Whenever you’re ready to upgrade your hot water system, I recommend stopping by your local Costco warehouse. Their knowledgeable staff and wide range of great products provide the perfect recipe for success!

Let me know if you have any other questions come up on your hot water heater journey. I’m always happy to help a friend make the best choices for their home.