A water heater is one of the most essential yet often overlooked appliances in your home. Whether it’s providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, or doing laundry, a functioning water heater is crucial for daily comfort. However, like all appliances, water heaters have a limited lifespan. Understanding how long your water heater is likely to last and how to extend its life can save you from unexpected cold showers and costly repairs.
Typical Lifespan of a Water Heater
On average, the lifespan of a traditional tank water heater is between 8 to 12 years, though some can last longer depending on several factors, such as maintenance, water quality, and usage. Tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand, often last longer—up to 20 years or more.
Here are a few factors that influence how long your water heater may last:
1. Type of Water Heater: Traditional tank water heaters generally have a shorter lifespan compared to tankless models. Electric water heaters may last a bit longer than gas units, but both are typically within the 8–12 year range.
2. Water Quality: Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can reduce the life of your water heater. Mineral deposits build up in the tank, causing the system to work harder and wear out faster.
3. Usage: Heavier usage, such as in larger households, can cause a water heater to wear out more quickly. A water heater that serves multiple bathrooms or appliances daily will likely have a shorter life.
4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is critical to extending the lifespan of your water heater. Neglecting basic care can lead to early system failures, while consistent upkeep can help the unit reach or even exceed its expected lifespan.
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
While your water heater won’t last forever, you can take steps to ensure it runs efficiently for as long as possible. Regular maintenance and preventative measures are key to keeping your water heater functioning optimally. Here are some tips to extend the life of your water heater:
1. Flush the Tank Regularly
Over time, sediment from hard water can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank, causing it to become less efficient and leading to overheating. Flushing the tank regularly can remove these mineral deposits and help maintain efficiency. It’s recommended to flush your tank at least once a year, but if you have hard water, you may need to do it more frequently.
Here’s how to flush your tank:
- Turn off the power supply (electric) or gas supply (gas heater).
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank and run the other end of the hose outside or to a floor drain.
- Open the valve to let the water flow out, and allow the tank to empty completely.
- Close the valve, remove the hose, and refill the tank with fresh water.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a professional plumber can help.
2. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a crucial component inside your water heater that helps prevent corrosion. This metal rod attracts corrosive elements in the water, keeping them away from the tank’s walls. Over time, the anode rod will wear down and need to be replaced to continue protecting your tank.
To extend the life of your water heater, check the anode rod every 2–3 years. If it’s heavily corroded or worn down to less than half an inch in thickness, it’s time to replace it. A new anode rod is a relatively inexpensive way to prevent rust from damaging your water heater tank and extend its life.
3. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Insulating your water heater and pipes can help improve energy efficiency and reduce strain on the unit, extending its life. Insulating the tank prevents heat loss, meaning the heater doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the desired water temperature. Insulating hot water pipes can also improve efficiency by preventing heat loss as the water travels through the pipes.
Pre-cut water heater insulation blankets are available and are easy to install. Just make sure you don’t cover the top of the gas heater or the pressure relief valve.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents excess pressure from building up inside the water heater tank, which could cause it to burst. It’s essential to test this valve annually to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
To test the valve:
- Place a bucket under the valve to catch any water.
- Lift the valve’s lever and allow some water to escape.
- Release the lever and see if water continues to flow. If it does, or if no water escapes at all, the valve may need to be replaced.
A faulty pressure relief valve can lead to serious damage to your water heater, so be sure to replace it as needed.
5. Adjust the Temperature Setting
Many water heaters come pre-set at a temperature of 140°F, but this is often hotter than necessary and can cause your heater to work harder than it needs to. Lowering the temperature to around 120°F can reduce wear and tear on the heating elements, lower your energy bills, and minimize the risk of scalding.
Simply adjust the temperature setting on your heater’s thermostat to 120°F for a more efficient and longer-lasting system.
6. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
While you can handle many of the maintenance tasks yourself, it’s still a good idea to schedule a professional inspection every couple of years. A licensed plumber can check for any issues you may have missed and perform more complex maintenance tasks, such as checking for gas leaks (for gas units) or electrical issues.
Regular professional maintenance can catch small problems before they become bigger, more expensive issues that could shorten the lifespan of your water heater.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Even with proper maintenance, there will come a time when your water heater needs to be replaced. Some signs that it’s time to start shopping for a new unit include:
- Age: If your water heater is over 10 years old and you’re experiencing issues, it may be time to consider a replacement.
- Rusty Water: If you notice rust-colored water coming from your faucets, it could be a sign that your water heater tank is corroding from the inside.
- Noisy Operation: Loud banging or rumbling noises can indicate a significant build-up of sediment in the tank, which can cause damage over time.
- Water Leaks: Any signs of water pooling around the base of your water heater should be addressed immediately, as leaks usually indicate the tank has deteriorated.
Trust The Experts To Make Sure Your Water Heater Is Taken Care Of
A well-maintained water heater can provide your home with reliable hot water for years to come. By flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, testing the pressure relief valve, and performing other essential maintenance tasks, you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid the hassle of premature replacement.
If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan, be proactive and consider replacing it before a breakdown occurs. Proper care and regular professional maintenance from someone like Swift Brothers will help ensure your water heater serves you efficiently and effectively for as long as possible.