Your water heater is essential to your household’s everyday routines, so it’s understandable to want a heater that will last as long as possible. Depending on the type, a water heater may last anywhere from eight years to more than 20 years. Traditional tank models usually have shorter lifespans than tankless systems, but maintenance, water quality, and household demand also affect longevity. Explore our guide to learn all about maintaining a water heater and figuring out when it’s time to replace it.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average tank water heater lasts around eight to 15 years. Meanwhile, a tankless water heater usually lasts around 15 to 20 years, and some homeowners have tankless systems that keep working for even longer. Tankless models often last longer because they don’t continuously store water in a metal tank that can eventually corrode. However, they still require maintenance to control mineral buildup and protect their internal components.
Electric tank water heaters sometimes last slightly longer than comparable gas models because they have fewer combustion-related components. However, water quality, maintenance, installation, and household demand can have a greater effect on longevity. If you have a hybrid heat pump model, it may last approximately 10 to 18 years with proper maintenance.
What Factors Affect Water Heater Lifespan?
While the type of water heater you choose makes a big difference in how long it lasts, that’s not the only factor. Even two water heaters that are the exact same make and model can need replacement at different times.
The difference in life expectancies for water heaters is partially due to water composition. If you have hard water, your system will get more mineral buildup, which can shorten its lifespan. Wear and tear also makes a big difference. In homes that use more hot water, water heaters won’t last as long.
Maintenance is another major factor in a water heater’s lifespan. If you ignore the maintenance recommended for your particular system, your water heater may fail prematurely. Delaying necessary repairs can also allow minor problems to damage other components.
Things You Can Do to Increase Your Water Heater Lifespan
If you want your water heater to last, follow the maintenance schedule provided by its manufacturer. Tank-style units may need periodic flushing to control sediment, while tankless models may require professional descaling, especially in homes with hard water. A plumber should also inspect the sacrificial anode rod in a tank-style model and replace it when deterioration warrants it. Proper maintenance can support efficient operation and reduce unnecessary strain on the system’s components.
You can also benefit from regular professional water heater service. During an inspection, our plumbers can check water pressure, test safety valves, and examine the system’s components. This process can uncover leaks, corrosion, mineral buildup, and other problems before they cause more extensive damage.
How Can You Tell When Your Water Heater Is Ready for Replacement?
Even the best care in the world won’t keep a water heater operational forever. It’s normal to start noticing some issues when your water heater is approaching the end of its lifespan.
Signs that warrant a professional evaluation include rusty or discolored hot water, unusual noises, recurring repair needs, insufficient hot water, and water leaking from the tank itself. Some of these problems are repairable, but internal tank corrosion or a leaking tank usually requires replacement.
Replacement may be more practical when an older water heater needs extensive or repeated repairs. Our plumbers can evaluate its age, condition, repair history, heating capacity, and efficiency to help you make an informed decision. However, keep in mind that it can sometimes be worthwhile to replace your system even if it’s not broken. If your system is older and you’re no longer happy with its energy efficiency or heating capacity, you might want to go ahead and replace it.
Water Heater Service in Madison, WI
Do you have questions about your water heater’s age? Avid Plumbing is here to help. Our team can inspect your system and recommend ways to further extend your water heater’s lifespan. We have experience working on a variety of models, and you can always count on us for maintenance, repairs, installations, and other plumbing services.
To learn more about our plumbing services in Madison, contact Avid Plumbing now.