The short answer is plumbers, plumbers install water heaters.
The real question is which plumber to choose to install your water heater.
Tank or Tankless, Missoula’s Water Has Opinions
Hard water shapes how long a water heater survives here, and the science backs that up. The Water Quality Association found hard water can cut a gas tank unit’s expected life from roughly 11 years down to about 5.5, and an electric tank from 13 years to about 6.5.
Missoula’s mineral content isn’t the worst in the state, but it’s enough, which is why the crew flushes and inspects every install before calling the job finished.
Tankless units sidestep some of that wear since there’s no standing tank collecting sediment, and they can stretch toward 15 to 20 years with upkeep. Tank units remain the more affordable upfront option and still make sense for plenty of households.
Why Missoula Homeowners Keep Calling Right Now
Right Now Plumbing and Heating has been installing tank and tankless water heaters across the Missoula Valley since 2018, and our crew answers calls around the clock, seven days a week.
One verified Google reviewer said:
“HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! Our water heater went out Saturday afternoon and I didn’t know what to do about the horrible gas smell either. I sent a request for a quote on the website and received an auto reply stating someone would get ahold of us within 1-2 hours.”
Coverage stretches beyond city limits too, reaching Lolo, Frenchtown, East Missoula, Bonner, Clinton, Seeley Lake, Hamilton, and Stevensville.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does water heater installation cost in Missoula?
Most standard 50-gallon gas tank installs run in the range of typical national averages, generally a few thousand dollars depending on unit type and venting needs. Call us directly for a price over the phone (406) 214-8904
How long does a water heater last in Missoula’s water?
Tank units typically last 8 to 12 years nationally, though hard water can shorten that. Tankless units often reach 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance.
Does Right Now Plumbing offer same-day water heater installation?
Yes. The team dispatches 24/7 and frequently completes installs the same day a homeowner calls.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
If the unit is past 8 years old, rusting, or leaking, replacement usually costs less long term than repeated repairs.
Do you install tankless water heaters?
Yes, Right Now installs both tank and tankless systems and can walk through which fits a specific home and budget.
Written by the owner of Right Now Plumbing and Heating.
Citations: Water Quality Association hard water lifespan findings, cited via Four Seasons Heating and Cooling 2026 water heater lifespan report. Right Now Plumbing and Heating verified Google review, sourced via Trustindex on rightnowplumbingmt.com.