Maybe your showers aren’t as hot as they used to be, or perhaps your water heater is making some disconcerting noises when it runs. You’re staring anxiously at your water heater, wondering whether it’s running on borrowed time.
How long can water heaters last, and is there anything you can do to squeeze more life out of yours? Find out in this guide to water heater longevity.
Factors Affecting Water Heater Life
What determines how long your water heater will last? Here are the main factors:
- Type of water heater: The type of water heater you have is one of the biggest factors in determining its lifespan. Traditional tank units typically last eight to 12 years, while tankless models can keep on trucking for up to 20 years.
- Fuel source: The fuel source your water heater relies on determines its lifespan as well. Electric water heaters generally last 10 to 15 years. Gas models typically last eight to 12 years.
- Excessive use: Using your water heater too much will, naturally, decrease its lifespan.
- Too-high temperatures: Those ultra-hot showers may feel great, but you’re not doing your water heater any favors.
Extending Water Heater Life
Here’s how to improve water heater longevity and get the most out of your unit:
- Install a filtration system: Filtration systems can slash the mineral content of your water, reducing the risk of sediment buildup and corrosion.
- Use moderate temperature settings: Setting your unit to a moderate temperature reduces component wear. Your energy bills will go down, too.
- Insulate the tank and pipes: Wrapping the unit and pipes in insulation can extend the water heater’s lifespan. That’s because the unit won’t have to work as hard to maintain the water temperature.
- Schedule regular maintenance: Annual maintenance catches little issues before they become life-ending problems for your water heater. Additionally, regular maintenance might be required to maintain your water heater warranty.
Home owners often wonder if it is possible to perform a DIY water heater flush. Read more about the challenges you may face doing it yourself.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement
Is your water heater on its way out? Here’s how to tell.
- It’s ancient: If your water heater is past its prime, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Not sure of your unit’s age? Find the serial number and search for it online. That’ll tell you when the unit was made.
- Water heater efficiency is plummeting: Skyrocketing utility bills often mean that a replacement water heater is in the cards. The good news? Energy-efficient water heaters can slash your utility bills big time.
- Inconsistent water temperature: Does the water suddenly turn freezing during your morning shower? Get ready to start shopping for a water heater replacement.
- Strange noises: If your system is making scary noises, it’s usually best to replace it sooner rather than later.
- Leaks: Leaks are never a good sign. If your unit has sprung a leak, a replacement might be in order.
Continue Reading: Is It Normal for A Water Heater To Make Popping Noises?
Water Heater on Its Last Legs? Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling
Want to improve water heater longevity or swap your aging unit out for a more efficient model? Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling and we’ll spring into action! Reach out to us at (518) 545-3271 to schedule water heater maintenance or replacement today.
