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How Long Does a Water Heater Last?
When it comes to home maintenance, it can be hard to tell when it's time to replace something like your water heater. But the truth is that water heaters don't last forever. Knowing how long they last and the signs that it's time to replace yours can help you stay on top of your home maintenance and save you money in the long run.
Read on for a comprehensive guide on how long water heaters usually last and signs it’s time to replace the heater, like corrosion, leaks, and frequent repairs.
The Average Lifespan of a Water Heater
On average, most conventional tank-type water heaters will last between 8-12 years. The amount of life you get from your water heater largely depends on its quality and maintenance practices. Quality materials and good care will extend the lifespan of any appliance, but eventually, all appliances must be replaced due to age or damage.
Signs It's Time To Replace Your Water Heater
Some signs are more pressing than others, but you should always rely on a professional plumber to assess any damage to your water heater.
Corrosion
Over time, corrosion can build up inside your tank due to old pipes or poor water quality, which leads to rusting of the steel tank walls and pipes within the heater itself. This causes rust-colored sediment buildup in your hot water supply, leading to clogging issues with fixtures such as faucets and showerheads. If you notice cloudy or discolored hot water coming out of your taps, this could indicate that there is corrosion in your tank.
Leaks
If you notice any moisture around the base of your unit or puddles forming near it, you should check for leaks immediately, as this could indicate an issue with one of the valves or pipes leading into/out from your unit. Leaks can also lead to costly repairs if addressed slowly due to potential damage from flooding caused by leaking hot water tanks, so take this seriously!
Frequent Repairs
In some cases, frequent repairs may be necessary for older units starting to show their age or that have had significant wear and tear over time due to usage patterns like high volume. If you find yourself having repairs done every few months, it may be time for a replacement rather than continued costly repairs down the line – especially if these repairs are directly related to the unit's age/wear and tear issues, not just plumbing-related issues.