A water heater is a considerable investment, so an unexpected failure is the last thing you want. While storage water heaters typically last around 8-10 years, tankless water heater systems can last around 25 years. However, various factors influence the actual lifespan of a water heater.
In this blog, we'll look at:
With regular professional servicing and some DIY, you can maximize your water heater's lifespan and plan accordingly for an eventual replacement.
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Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Water Heaters
How long water heaters last depends on many factors, such as:
- Usage patterns: Water heaters may not last as long in households with high water demand. This is because constant running of tankless water heaters or frequent refilling of tank-based systems increases wear and tear.
- Water quality: Hard water causes mineral buildup, which can cause overheating or speed up the corrosion of your water heater.
- Installation skill: A poorly installed water heater experiences greater wear and tear.
- Maintenance: An inconsistent or ineffective maintenance regimen can speed up water heater failure.
- Environment: Salty or humid air can increase corrosion. Extreme temperatures or frequent climate shifts also strain your water heater.
Choosing the right-sized water heater, having it installed by reputable professionals, and following a regular maintenance schedule can help prevent most problems. Water softeners and system relocation can also help avoid any water quality or environmental issues.
Average Lifespan of Different Types of Water Heaters
How long hot water heaters last also varies based on the type of system:
- Traditional tank water heaters: Depending on the brand and model, storage water heater lifespans approach the 10-year mark, on average.
- Tankless water heaters: When it comes to how long tankless water heaters last, you can expect a lifespan of about 25 years with consistent maintenance.
- Gas water heaters: The main factor determining how long gas water heaters last is the type of system; tank-based heaters last about 10 years, while tankless heaters can last twice as long.
- Heat pump water heaters: A more modern type of storage water heater, heat pump-based systems last about 15 years.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement
Aging water heaters don't function as efficiently, so it's generally a good idea to consider replacing storage heaters around the 10-year mark and tankless systems around the 25-year mark, even if they're still functioning. However, your water heater could fail much earlier than this.
Signs of impending failure include:
- Rusty or discolored water despite regular flushing
- Metallic tastes and smells
- Longer heating cycles
- Inconsistent water temperatures
- Hot water runs out much sooner
- Frequent loud noises
- Visible corrosion and deterioration
- Water leaks and pressure buildup
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
Effective water heater maintenance starts with frequent observation. Check for leaks, strange sounds, corrosion, and other issues to help prevent minor problems from becoming costly repairs.
Every three months, you should perform more thorough checks and tests, including:
- Checking the temperature
- Testing the pressure-relief valve
Annual maintenance is even more important. Required tasks include:
- Flushing the tank
- Inspecting the anode rod
- Checking electrical components
- Checking and cleaning ventilation systems and gas burners
- Inspecting the insulation
- Verifying the water pressure
- Inspecting the system's drainage
Professionals should complete the more advanced maintenance tasks to ensure safety and maximize your system's lifespan.
Professional Water Heater Maintenance and Replacement Options
In addition to being safer, professional maintenance comes with the benefit of expertise. Professionals can spot issues early, keeping your water heater running efficiently.
If your water heater is about to fail, a professional can also often provide advance warning, ensuring you have more time to budget for a replacement.
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