It can also be ammonia or acids or anything else near the water heater that qualifies as corrosive. If the gas water heater draws corrosive air into the burner, then the fumes created will also be corrosive, and corrode the water heater. This can lead to premature tank failure.
A sudden voltage increase could overload a heating element of your water heater, burning it out. All elements of a water heater have voltage ratings. Voltages exceeding the rating of an element will burn it out.
Hard water can cause sediment to build up in your water heater, leading to corrosion and shortened lifespan. We recommend installing a water softener or using a filtration system if you have hard water. This will not only extend the life of your water heater, but it will also improve the quality of your water overall.
Water heaters have magnesium-style anode rods, which are intended to prevent rust and corrosion. However, once the anode no longer protect, rust will begin to corrode various metallic components within the heater and the entire unit can begin to leak.
According to IBHS, 69% of water heater failures are a result of a slow leak or sudden burst, causing significant water damage. Not only are these claims frequent, but IBHS also estimates that they cost an average of $4,444 per claim.
Water Heater Lifespan
A hot water heater's lifespan depends on many factors, including the type of water heater, the energy source, the type of water you have, and how well the unit is maintained. On average, most water heaters last between 8 and 12 years but some can last up to 20 years with regular maintenance.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Flush your water heater every six months or so. If you have harder water, or water that contains more minerals, you may want to flush it more often. If you leave town, change your water heater to its vacation setting. The pilot light will stay on, but the water will not be heated.
Maintenance schedule: Most manufacturers recommend flushing or maintaining your water heater every year or every few years. Water heater lifespans: The typical lifespan of a water heater is 10 years for a tank-style heater and 20 years for a tankless heater.
If your water heater breaks, follow these steps: turn off the power and cold water supply to your tank, take photos of the broken water heater and the damage it caused, drain the water, call your insurance, and contact a water damage restoration pro for complete restoration services.
Sediment buildup, rust, and high water pressure are some of the most common causes of water heater failure. Improper installation or equipment sizing are other commonly found issues. A leak can occur near the supply line which can cause damage to dry wall or flooring.
Power Surges
Every electrical water heater has a voltage rating, so exceeding that rating can burn out the heating element. You can prevent this from happening at your home by having surge protection installed by an electrician.
As it's heated over and over again, the sediment will get hard and will start to shift around, causing rumbling or gurgling noises. These sounds aren't a good sign, and can lead to overworked water heaters, leaks, internal damage, and more.
What Happens if I don't Flush My Water Heater? Leaving sediment build up in your water heater can not only cause it to work harder, but also lead to some serious problems. For example, if the sediment gets to be too much, you can start to see it come out of your faucets.
While draining your water heater once a year is the minimum recommended maintenance, flushing it twice a year is ideal. If you live in an area with high mineral content, more frequent flushing may be necessary to prevent mineral buildup in the tank.
Expect a pro to charge you between $75 and $200 to come to your home to flush your water heater, depending on where you live. While this cost deters many homeowners from performing this annual maintenance, it can extend the water heater's lifespan by years, making it worth the additional cost.
An average 40-gallon heater will only take about 30 to 40 minutes to provide heat water, while you can expect hot water from a larger tank (80-gallons) in approximately 60 to 70 minutes.
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more. Traditional water heaters with standing water tanks can last around 10 to 15 years before you notice signs of age.
If a water heater is ten years or older, you should start thinking about replacing it. At the least, you should keep a closer eye on it. For example, if you see leaks around the base of your water heater, it's probably time to replace it. Before you retire your old heater, however, check for other problems.
It would be wise to start looking for a replacement because, like all mechanical equipment, water heaters have a life expectancy. Traditional storage water heaters typically last about 10 to 15 years, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more.
While rare, residential water heater explosions do occur and can be deadly.