Water Heater Gas Burner Replacement Cost and Guide

Published: July 21, 2026 — BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning — Greater Vancouver, BC

Signs of Burner Problems

A failing gas burner shows: yellow or orange flame (should be blue with small yellow tips), soot on the burner, burner making unusual noises, uneven flame pattern with gaps, or the burner not lighting across all ports. Carbon buildup or corrosion on the burner assembly is common in older units.

Replacement Cost

Burner assembly replacement costs $200-400 including the burner, gasket, and labour. OEM burner kits ensure proper fit and combustion characteristics. Aftermarket burners are cheaper but may not match the original specifications — use OEM for safety and efficiency.

Repair vs Replace Decision

If the water heater is under 6 years old and the burner fails due to a defect, replace the burner. If the water heater is 8+ years old and the burner fails due to general wear, consider full replacement — the burner is a sign of overall aging and other components may soon follow.

Related Services

Safety Reminder

If you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the property and contact emergency services or the appropriate gas emergency authority. Do not remain inside — exit the building immediately and call for help from outside.