What is the life expectancy of your water heater?
What Is the Average Life of a Water Heater?
The average life of a water heater ranges from six to 15 years, though we recommend replacing yours every seven to eight years. Figuring out your water heater’s lifespan is a complex undertaking, but a YES! professional will be more than happy to do the work for you.
When it comes to newly purchased water heaters, they likely won’t break down or have issues for quite some time. However, understanding the life expectancy of your water heater can help you prepare for future costs or even cut down on costs now.
Let’s explore the lifespans for different water heater types, signs your water heater needs to be replaced, and to know when you need to call a professional.
Understanding Water Heater Lifespan
What is the average life of a water heater, and how can you get the most out of your investment? Many factors go into your water heater’s lifespan, from the water heater type to the quality of your water.
The better you understand these factors, the easier it will be to maintain your unit and enjoy several years of quality performance. The most common factors that go into your water heater’s lifespan include:
Hard water (a term referring to a higher amount of mineral build-up in your water supply)
Usage patterns (such as how often you or your family uses hot water)
Installation quality
Brand choice
Maintenance frequency
Water heater type
You should replace your water heater every seven to eight years. While water heaters can sometimes last up to 15 years, they show their age in several ways and start costing you in the long run. If yours is 20 years or older, you need a replacement as soon as possible.
Do you live in Nevada and need help understanding your water heater’s lifespan and performance? Schedule service with YES! to talk to our expert team and start saving money.
Tank Water Heaters: Gas vs Electric
Gas water heaters are known for heating up water quickly and lasting a decent amount of time, usually between eight and 12 years. Considering the slightly lower gas water heater life expectancy, professionals recommend considering a replacement at the 10-year mark.
Electric water heaters tend to last longer than gas water heaters, usually 10 to 15 years. Once your unit reaches 10 years, you should have it regularly serviced by a professional.
Tankless Water Heaters
Your tankless water heater’s life expectancy usually hits 15 to 20 years (though it’s best not to wait that long). The tankless water heater’s energy-efficient design and easily replaceable parts make it a great option for homeowners who want to hold onto their unit as long as possible.
Hybrid Water Heaters
If you have a hybrid water heater, expect it to maintain a good performance for 12 to 15 years. These water heaters work well by combining multiple heating options in one place, though their larger size makes them difficult to install in smaller homes.
Despite so many details, the life expectancy of a hot water heater is mainly in your hands. If you’re thinking of installing a new water heater or simply want to inspect your current one’s lifespan, give us a call.
Our experienced team will be happy to provide an in-depth consultation for your home’s unique needs.
Signs Your Water Heater May Be Failing
What is the average life of a water heater, and what signs could indicate it’s starting to fail? You should check your water heater every few months for signs it could need servicing or replacing.
If you notice any of these signs your water heater is going bad, calling a professional will help you avoid costly repairs and reduce the risk of a water heater emergency.
Visible Leaks
A leaking water heater should be looked at as soon as possible to save you money on more expensive repairs. This issue can be caused by sediment buildup, loose pipe connections, or physical damage.
It’s important to note that tankless water heaters can also leak, usually around the joints or pipes.
Rusty Water
Rusty water tends to be brown, orange, or yellow. This annoying issue usually stems from corroded metal or a compromised anode rod, a tool that helps prevent premature rusting.
Strange Noises
Generally, your water heater should either be quiet or make the occasional, soft crackle or hiss while it works. However, you shouldn’t hear squealing, rumbling, gurgling, or popping.
These sounds usually indicate sediment buildup or a loose valve that could cause the water heater to fail later.
Inconsistent Temperature
This issue is one of the most frustrating because it impacts everything from your regular shower to washing your dishes. If your water heater doesn’t heat consistently or only heats for a short time, there could be problems with the thermostat, pressure relief valve, or faulty wiring.
Do any of these issues apply to your water heater? Schedule a repair or a water heater replacement and we’ll be happy to help.
Repair or Replace? How To Decide
Sometimes your water heater is working just fine and doesn’t need a replacement or major repair job. Ask yourself the following questions to narrow down the right decision:
Is my water heater consistently and quickly heating water when I need it?
Is my water heater less than eight years old?
Is my water heater an energy-efficient model, such as electric?
Have I called a professional to service my water heater in the past three years?
If you answered no to any of these questions, it might be time to repair or replace. Call us, and we’ll help you figure out the best course of action.
How To Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
If you’re wondering how you can extend the average life of a water heater, there are several simple things you can do that can add years to your unit. Some of these water heater maintenance tips you can do yourself, while others will need the help of a professional.
Annual Flushing
Flushing your water heater is a simple yet highly effective way of extending its lifespan by targeting some of its most common issues. This act breaks up sediment deposits and reduces mineral buildup, keeping corrosion at bay and improving its performance.
While some homeowners have the knowledge and tools to flush their own water heater, it’s better to call a professional if you’re a beginner.
Anode Rod Inspection
Your anode rod works around the clock to keep your water low on corrosion. A professional should check your anode rod every two to three years to make sure it’s doing its job well.
An old anode rod won’t be able to prevent corrosion and rust, leading to a dirtier water heater that struggles to heat properly.
Temperature Settings
Your water heater should be between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is struggling to hit the bare minimum, that’s a good sign to get a professional on the case.
Softener Use for Hard Water
Water softeners are a great way to extend the average life of a water heater by neutralizing minerals or preventing them from hardening. Since hard water causes sediment deposits or corrosion, this short-term investment means long-term savings.
The Hidden Costs of Waiting Too Long To Replace
You may be tempted to put off a repair or replacement because of costs. Waiting too long to replace a faulty water heater can actually cost you far more due to compromised performance or the increased risk of a complete breakdown.
Water Damage Repairs
A water heater can cause water damage to your home if it starts leaking or bursts a pipe. If left unchecked, leaks can cause mold damage or damage your home’s foundation.
Higher Energy Bills
A poorly-functioning water heater doesn’t operate separately from your energy bills. Failing to service your water heater means you’ll be paying the same amount (or more) for lackluster performance.
Emergency Replacement Premiums
Depending on the company you worked with, you may have to pay a premium on an emergency replacement. However, regularly servicing your unit drastically reduces the risk (and at a lower cost).
Average Replacement Costs & Financing Options
Many details go into the final cost of replacing your water heater, such as the type, the size, and any other plumbing services you may need. If you need help budgeting your appointment, YES! provides accessible financing options, coupons, and discounts.
Should you get a tankless water heater or a tank? Are you already paying too much for energy bills on your current unit? Give YES! a call, and our expert team will be happy to help you start saving money on your water heater.
Upgrades To Consider When Replacing
Alongside increasing the average life of your water heater, you can add multiple plumbing upgrades for a completely transformed home.
Smart Water Heaters: These models come with smart tools to help you monitor temperature, energy usage, or potential leaks.
Energy-efficient Models: Some water heater types, like electric, are more energy-efficient than gas models.
Larger Water Heater Capacity: If you have a large family, you may want to consider getting a larger water heater.
We also serve homeowners in Utah. Schedule an appointment with YES! to learn about energy-efficient and cost-effective upgrades.
Enjoy YES! Local Expertise in Utah & Nevada
When it comes time to shop for a new hot water heater, let Yes! help you make an informed choice in your investment. We’ve been providing Utah and Nevada homeowners with local expertise, fast service, and regular savings for over 45 years. If you’re not satisfied with our work, we offer a full refund under our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee within a year of the original invoice date.
YES! makes it easy to keep your energy bills low and your water heater lifetime high. Call our team at 844-216-9300 to speak with a technician.
Schedule Your Appointment Today