I installed my HPWH in 60min including a run to ace hardware 4 miles away
and the drain line.
I did have lowes deliver it to my basement and tipped the guy a 20. they used that forearm forklift.
I wrestled it up onto a double layer of pavers so the wiring would reach.
As long as there is a drain its certainly not hard.
I'd consider having 240v run. you would be ready for a PHEV and able to use the vastly more common 240v models... as well as have backup 4500w(5500w?) elements if for a week its -10f out and too cold in garage.
At propane prices last year resistance electric heat isnt even that much worse.. although about 3 to 3.5x worse than Heat pump mode.
I put in a HPWH because it was $2900 to get a power vent NG water heater installed.. by the less-ripoff plumber.
and I get dehumidification so I can subtract 7-10 months of running a dehumidifier or fans.
HPWH was 212+79 delivery 50 plumbing pieces(already had most) -$300 federal rebate
I had a first gen Rheem that wasnt great initially and was hit by lighting surge. but warranty covered that and it worked flawless until it rusted out at a union due to bad installer.
My self installed AO smith I expect 8-14 years.. and the hot water part is basically free due to the electricity savings + the savings of no fan or dehumifidier.
I run it at 149f. upstairs the outside radon fan is louder than the water heater. Its not quiet.. but not annoying either.
just for curiosity I looked up my old invoice I was off a couple bucks they charged taxes on delivery