How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
Do you know how long your water heater is supposed to last? If not, you’re not alone. Most people don’t know, and it’s important to understand if you want to keep your home running efficiently.
In this guide, we will discuss how long water heaters typically last and what you can do if yours fails sooner than expected.
What is a Water Heater?
A water heater is a household appliance that heats and stores water for future use. The most common type of water heater in the United States is the storage tank model, but tankless water heaters are also popular.
Also known as a domestic water heater, this appliance is used to provide hot water for bathing, showering, dishwashing, and other household tasks.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of a storage-tank water heater is eight to twelve years. However, there are many factors that can affect how long your water heater lasts.
Some of the most common causes of early failure include inadequate maintenance, sediment buildup in the tank, corrosion due to hard water minerals, and improper installation.
If you want your water heater to last as long as possible, it’s important to perform regular maintenance and take steps to prevent damage from occurring.
10 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
Although water heaters typically last for eight to twelve years, there are some telltale signs that can tell you it’s time to replace yours. You can find repair and replacement costs for a water heater here. If your water heater is showing any of the following symptoms, it may be time for a replacement:
1
Leaking or pooling water around the tank
This could be a sign that the tank is corroded and needs to be replaced.
2
Failure to heat water
If you’re not getting any hot water, it’s likely that your water heater has failed.
3
Water is discolored or smells bad
This could be a sign of bacteria growth or sediment buildup in the tank.
4
Rising energy costs
If your energy bills are rising even though you haven’t changed your habits, it may be time to replace your old water heater with a new, more efficient model.
5
Rusty water
Rusty-colored water can be caused by corrosion from hard water minerals.
6
Sounding like a jet engine
A loud noise coming from the water heater could mean that there is a problem with the gas burner or flame.
7
It hasn't been replaced in 15 years
If your water heater is more than fifteen years old, it’s likely time for a replacement.
8
The water is muddy or sandy
If your water heater is located in a basement, and the water coming out of it is muddy or sandy, that’s a sign that it needs to be replaced.
9
The water has a metallic smell and taste
This could be a sign of corroded metals in the tank.
10
Your water might be warm but no longer hot
If the water coming out of your taps is only warm and not hot, it’s likely that your water heater has failed. Hot water heater replacement might be the best solution.
What Causes Water Heater Failure?
There are a number of things that can cause water heater failure. The most common causes are:
- Inadequate maintenance - If you don't perform regular maintenance on your water heater, it will eventually fail.
- Sediment buildup - If sediment accumulates in the tank, it can cause corrosion and damage to the heating elements.
- Hard water minerals - Corrosion from hard water minerals can also cause the early failure of a water heater.
- Improper installation - If a water heater is not installed properly, it may not function correctly and could fail prematurely.
- Your water heater is too small - If your water heater is too small for your needs, it may not be able to keep up with demand and could fail.
- Water pressure that is too high - If the water pressure is too high, it can cause the water heater to overheat and fail.
6 Ways to Prevent a Water Heater Disaster
There are a number of things you can do to prevent a water heater disaster. Some of the most important are:
Perform regular maintenance
This includes cleaning the tank and checking for leaks.
Install a water softener
A water softener will help to reduce corrosion from hard water minerals.
Watch your energy usage
If you’re using more energy than usual, it may be time to upgrade to a newer model.
Use caution when draining the tank
Be careful not to damage the plumbing or electrical connections when draining the tank.
Insulate your pipes
Pipe insulation can help keep your water heater from working too hard and prolonging its life.
Replace the water heater if it's more than fifteen years old
If your water heater is older than fifteen years, it’s most likely time for a replacement.
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
Even if your water heater is showing signs of age, there are some things you can do to prolong its life. Here are a couple of tips:
Replace the anode rod
The anode rod helps protect the tank from corrosion, so replacing it when necessary can help extend the life of your water heater.
Install a tankless water heater for extra coverage
The anode rod helps protect the tank from corrosion, so replacing it when necessary can help extend the life of your water heater.
Water Heater Replacement Tips
If it’s time for a new water heater, there are some things you should consider before making a purchase:
- Size of the household - If you have a large household, you'll need a larger water heater that can handle more demand.
- Energy usage - Look for a model that has an Energy Star rating to ensure that it is energy-efficient.
- Location of installation - If your water heater is in a tight space, make sure to get one that is compact.
- Durability - Choose a model that is built to last.
How Do you Clean the Sediment Out of a Water Heater?
If your water heater is showing signs of sediment buildup, there are a few steps you can take to clean it out:
STEP 1
Turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker panel.
STEP 2
Close the cold water valve at the top of the tank.
STEP 3
Open a hot water faucet somewhere in the house and allow all of the water to run out of the tank.
STEP 4
Disconnect the hose from the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and attach it to a garden hose.
STEP 5
Turn on the garden hose and open up the drain valve on the water heater.
STEP 6
Allow all of the sediment to flow out of the tank until it’s clear.
STEP 7
Reconnect the hose to the drain valve, close the cold water valve, turn on the power to the water heater.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Do water heaters require maintenance?
Yes, water heaters require regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently and prolong their life, including cleaning the tank, monitoring for leaks, and replacing the anode rod.
2
How often should you drain your water heater?
The frequency with which you should drain your water heater depends on the type of water heater you have and the level of sediment buildup.
If you have a gas-fired water heater, you should drain it every year. If you have an electric water heater, you should drain it every two to three years.
And if you have a tankless water heater, there is no need to ever drain it.
3
What should you do if your water heater is leaking?
If your water heater is leaking, you should turn off the power to it at the breaker panel, close the cold water valve at the top of the tank, and call a plumber.
4
Are tankless water heaters more energy efficient?
Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional storage-tank models because they don’t have to reheat stored water constantly. This can save you up to 30% on your utility bills.
5
Is there anything I can do to extend the life of my old water heater?
Yes, there are a few things you can do to prolong the life of your old water heater, including performing regular maintenance, replacing the anode rod, and installing a tankless model for added support.
6
How do hot tank water heaters work?
Hot water tank heaters work by heating water and storing it in a tank until it is needed. When you turn on a hot water faucet, the heated water flows out of the water heater tank and into your sink or shower.
Water heaters last an average of eight to twelve years. However, there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your water heater and keep it running efficiently.
Regular water heater maintenance, replacing the anode rod, and installing a tankless model are all great ways to accomplish this. If it’s time for a new water heater, be sure to consider size, energy usage, location of installation, and durability before making your purchase.