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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If neither you nor a professional have flushed your water within the last five years, Water Heaters Now recommends not flushing it yourself.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Care for your unit by checking these common issues annually: Check for leaks. Flush the tank. Test the temperature and pressure relief valve.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.