How many years does a water heater last?

Author: Dr. Rasheed Franecki  |  Last update: Sunday, October 5, 2025

Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the average life expectancy of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.

How do you know when a water heater needs to be replaced?

Common signs that it's time to replace your water heater include its age (usually 10-15 years), rusty or discolored water, strange noises, leaks or pooling water around the tank, and insufficient hot water supply.

Can a tank water heater last 20 years?

The life expectancy of a hot water tank varies depending on its size, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained. A standard 40-gallon tank will last between 10 and 15 years while larger tanks (50 gallons) have a lifespan of up to 20 years.

What are the signs that your water heater is going out?

Water heaters show several signs of going bad, including lack of hot water, temperature fluctuations, decreased water pressure, strange noises, rotten egg smell, visible leaks, rusty or discolored water, and increased energy bills. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.

Should I replace a 15 year old water heater?

Water heaters typically have more than 10 years of useful life, so it is unlikely that they will need to be replaced unless you detect constant failures such as leaks, clogs, or no longer producing hot water as before.

How long does a water heater last?

Is it worth fixing a 20 year old water heater?

According to Consumerreports.org, gas water heaters usually last 10 years and tankless water heaters last 20+ years. So, if your water heater is near the end of it's life, it would be wise to replace instead of repair--especially if the repair is costly.

What is the most common cause of water heater failure?

A: Common causes of water heater malfunctions include sediment buildup, faulty heating elements or thermostats, corroded anode rods, and excessive water pressure. Regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues.

How to tell if your anode rod is bad?

Poor water heater performance can sometimes stem from an anode rod that's overdue for replacement. If you notice signs of poor performance, such as discolored or rusty water, sulfuric or rotten egg smells, popping sounds from the tank, or high heating bills, inspect your water rod to determine if it needs replacement.

What is the first thing to check when there is no hot water?

Check the circuit breaker.

If you have an electric water heater, the first thing to check when experiencing hot water issues is your circuit breaker. A tripped circuit means the current was disrupted. As a safety measure, the circuit breaker flips.

Should I flush a 7 year old water heater?

If neither you nor a professional have flushed your water within the last five years, Water Heaters Now recommends not flushing it yourself.

What shortens the life of a water heater?

Sediment can build up over time in a water heater, shortening its lifespan. To prevent this, you should flush your water heater at least once per year. Flushing will help to remove any sediment that has built up and improve the efficiency of your water heater.

Which water heater brand lasts the longest?

Bradford White water heaters are known for their durability and sturdy construction, providing lasting performance for years. In business since 1881, the company has a long reputation for selling quality products for both residential and commercial use.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a water heater?

Once you decide to (or are forced to) replace your current water heater, there are a few decisions you need to make to get the process started. If there are no issues or complications, a licensed plumber should be able to complete the process in 2-3 hours.

Can a hot water heater last 20 years?

Water Heater Lifespan

With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.

What maintenance does a water heater need?

Care for your unit by checking these common issues annually: Check for leaks. Flush the tank. Test the temperature and pressure relief valve.

How much does it cost to replace the anode rod in a water heater?

Anode Rod Replacement: While an anode rod costs between $20 and $50, a plumber can replace it for $50 to $150. The job typically takes about an hour. The anode rod protects the tank from corrosive materials and needs to be changed every few years. Water Heater Tank Flush: A water heater flush kit can cost around $150.

How often should I flush my water heater?

Most homeowners should flush their water heaters every 6 months or so, but if you have extremely hard water, you may want to do it more often. Flushing your hot water heater could be necessary as often as every few months depending on the mineral content of your local water supply.

What is the life expectancy of an anode rod?

In any case, water heater anode rods are essential for protecting your tank from corrosion, but they eventually wear out after around 3-5 years, depending on many factors including the hardness or softness of your water.

What are signs your water heater is going bad?

1 – Lack of Hot Water

The most common sign of a failing hot water heater is lack of sufficient hot water when you need it. If your shower is giving you lukewarm water or it takes a long time to get hot water coming to your faucets, you have a problem.

Why do water heaters fail so quickly?

Heating elements can gradual breakdown if there is a mineral build up in the heating system. This is because mineral deposits can solidify, encasing the elements and forcing it to work harder to heat the water. This will lead to gradual wear out that will make the heating system have a shorter life span.

Can a bad water heater cause a high water bill?

Your water bill might surge due to a multitude of factors, including leaks in toilets, faucets, or pipes, excessive water usage, problems with your hot water heater, rising water rates, or even a faulty water meter.

How much is labor to replace a water heater?

What is the average labor cost to replace an electric hot water heater? The cost of labor might range from $150 to $1,000 or more, however, depending on the type and size of the water heater. The cost of replacing a 50-gallon hot water heater will vary depending on the type of heater you choose.

Does home insurance cover a water heater?

It's important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies typically only cover damage to the structure of your home and personal property. They do not include replacement cost coverage for the heater itself.

Who makes the best water heaters?

These are the three water heater brands ranked in the order of our preference:
  • American Standard.
  • Bradford White.
  • Rheem.

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