I would call a local Sears,they would be able to help you with that and any other questions you have.

It depends on the location of the heater. If it is in a garage or the first floor of a structure, then it is a one man job. If the location is the attic, then it is a two man operation, and the cost will go up. Sears uses independent contractors to install all appliances, so check with your plumber also. We sometimes run specials, especially when times are tough, and we need some service calls. Good luck!

call and ask them

Whereas it would be impossible to accurately answer your question, because every installation has different degrees of difficulty, I will say this, Sears will be more expensive than hiring an independent plumber.

They use subcontractors and make a profit on the subcontractor’s labor. Not to mention, their material costs are higher and if you ever need a repair, Kenmore parts are more costly than almost any other brand name.

I hired an independent plumber for mine and paid nearly half the price I would have paid Sears.

I have an electric water heater - although I’ve never had to replace it I’m looking into get a tank-less water heater - it cost a little more in the beginning but I’m looking at saving more because it only heats the water I use and will not heat water just because it gets cool - like when no one is home or on vacation - besides it will continue to give hot water without having to wait for it to reheat some cold water that comes in to the tank - sense you are looking to buy maybe you want to look at some options - I am

I think they had a flat rate of like $150 to deliver and do a “normal” install.

BUT! In my state they added a new regulation requiring expansion tanks to be added. Those can cost a chunk of money. Then too often the valves are bad or other plumbing may need to be changed. That raises costs a lot. I have seen that $150 jump to $400-$600 with the other plumbing and parts added.

There is also new requirements for earthquake strapping that must be well secured. And they now require a permit ($60 here) from the city/state, too.

Then the city may come out to inspect to ensure that all codes are being met.

All that extra work changes it from being a “normal” installation and that costs, it can get pricey.

So it will cost a lot less if you already have an expansion tank, the proper earthquake strap and the plumbing and valves are good.

Good Luck.