A water heater is an appliance that is a must to ensure you will have hot water to wash yourself, clean your house, and cook, among other things. You use it on a daily basis; however, how many times do you consider its life cycle? Knowing the lifespan of a water heater and when it needs to be replaced is useful in preventing a breakdown and expensive service. In this blog, we shall discuss the average lifespan of water heaters, factors that affect lifespan, indicators of an aging water heater, and tips to increase the lifespan of a water heater.
The Typical Lifespan of a Water Heater
With proper maintenance, an average well-kept water heater will last 10 to 15 years. Nevertheless, this life expectancy may differ with a number of factors that include the type of water heater, quality of the installation, and the maintenance of the unit.
The following is a breakdown of the average life of various kinds of water heaters:
Tank Water Heaters (Storage Water Heaters):
The most common types of tank water heaters are the traditional type, and normally last 10 to 15 years. These heaters keep the water hot in a tank on a constant basis.
Tankless Water Heaters (On-Demand Water Heaters):
Tankless water heaters should last longer than tank heaters because they are only heated when needed. Tankless units last about 20 years on average and are relatively durable.
Heat Pump Water Heaters:
Hybrid water heaters or heat pump water heaters are water heaters that utilize electricity to transfer heat to water by using the air or ground. These models are able can come with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years like conventional tank water heaters.
Solar Water Heaters:
One of the most energy efficient water heating systems is the solar water heater which uses energy from the sun. When maintained, they may last up to 20 years or even longer, depending on the components of the system.
Factors That Influence the Lifespan of a Water Heater
There are many factors that determine the life of your water heater. Average water heater life is 10-15 years, although the following factors may shorten or extend its life:
Water Quality
The quality of your local water supply can greatly influence the life of your water heater. Hard water with lots of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, may cause the formation of minerals in the interior of the tank. Such accumulation may make the heater labor more, resulting in early wear and tear. Filtered water can be used to extend the lifespan of your water heater.
Maintenance and Care
Maintenance is very important to increase the life of your water heater. Unless you do simple maintenance tasks, such as flushing the tank once a year, your unit will start to have problems sooner. Over time, the accumulation of sediment may occur, lowering the performance of the water heater and even leading to its damage. An inspection and frequent maintenance can ensure that your system operates smoothly within a longer time.
Usage Patterns
Your water heater can still live a long life depending on how you use it. For example, with a large family that consumes a lot of hot water, for laundry, washing food, taking showers, your water heater will have a bigger load. This may result in a reduced life expectancy due to this increased workload. Conversely, if you use hot water more sparingly, your water heater can last longer.
Quality of Installation
An aptly installed water heater will be long lasting as opposed to a water heater not installed properly. To be sure that everything is installed correctly make sure to hire a qualified and experienced professional to install your water heater. Poor installation will cause failure of the system or efficiency in the future.
Type of Water Heater
As previously stated, the kind of water heater that you use can also determine its longevity. An example is tankless water heaters which last longer as compared to conventional tank water heaters, which last 10-15 years. On the same note, the lifespan of the hybrid or heat pump water heaters might also be longer than conventional ones because of the energy efficient design.
Signs Your Water Heater is Reaching the End of Its Life
Water heaters are not an eternal commodity, and there are several indicators which may indicate your appliance is running out of life.
If you observe any of the following, then it is time to change your water heater:
Inconsistent Water Temperature
If your water temperature changes unintentionally, e.g., hot water at one point then oscillating to cold the next, then that may be a sign of a faulty heating component or thermostat. This issue may get worse with time and may be an indicator that your water heater is breaking down.
Loud Noises
With advancing age, water heaters accumulate sediments at the tank base which then produce weird popping or rumbling sounds during the water heating process. This sedimentation may cause bad heating efficiency and even damage to the tank. It might need replacing if the unit is becoming noisy.
Rusty or Discolored Water
Whenever you find that your taps produce rusty-colored water, this can be a sign that the tank in your water heater is corroding. The accumulation of rust and sediment in the tank may result in degradation of the tank, decreasing performance and even causing leakages.
Leaks Around the Base of the Heater
A leaking water heater is a grave issue that normally implies the tank has either cracked or is otherwise damaged. When you notice that there is water accumulating around your water heater, then it is time to employ the services of a professional. A leaking tank is an indication that the unit has reached its expiration point.
Age of the Water Heater
If your water heater is aging past 10 years and has some problems, it is high time to change the heater. Although it may still operate, the old unit likely will not be as efficient in the use of energy as newer ones and will drive up your energy bill.
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
Although you are powerless about some factors that influence the lifespan of your water heater, there are several things you can do to prolong its life:
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Annually getting your water heater serviced is a step to making it last longer. A technician will perform a routine inspection to detect the presence of problems like the accumulation of sediment, leaks, corrosion evidence, among others, and will deal with them before they lead to significant damage.
Flush the Tank Regularly
By flushing your water heater at least once a year, you can get the sediment out of the unit and save some energy and also prolong the life of your unit. More frequent flushing can be required in case of hard water.
Install a Water Softener
If you are living in a hard water locality, you should install a water softener. By softening water, you can make sure that the mineral deposits are minimized in the inside of the tank, and therefore, your water heater will perform better and last longer.
Adjust the Temperature Setting
Setting the water heater too hot may overstretch the appliance. To be safe and efficient, you should adjust your water heater to 120 degrees F to avoid overheating and damage.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
All water heaters have a limited lifespan despite maintenance. When the lifespan of your water heater is about 10 years, coupled with constant problems, then it may be time to change it. Newer water heaters are also more efficient, which can save you in the long run.
If you are not sure if you need to replace your water heater, consult a professional plumber. They will be able to evaluate your unit and suggest the most appropriate course of action.