How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The water heater like other home appliances is an important part of facilitating the residents. No matter where you live, it plays a crucial role in your daily life. Every sensible human wants to take a bath with hot water supplied through the water heater. From utilizing daily personal hygiene routines such as showering and washing hands to carrying out household tasks like cooking, laundry, and washing dishes, an average individual may need to use water at different temperatures as many as 20 times throughout the day. When it comes to quality and lifespan then there are a lot of things that can affect its credibility and performance.
When the water heater starts to falter, the absence and need of this appliance quickly becomes noticeable. If you ignore its maintenance, it will not last longer as it should. Thus, the lifespan of the water heater is reduced. Understanding when to know your water heater needs to be replaced is, therefore, crucial to ensure a steady supply of hot water to your home.
Average Water Heater Lifespan
A water heater’s lifespan depends on many factors. The average lifespan of water heaters is 8 to 12 years. But, with regular maintenance and care the lifespan can extend to 15 years. This can vary based on factors like the type of heater, the energy it uses, the quality of your water, and maintenance. If your heater is over eight years old, it’s probably time to think about replacement. Regular maintenance can extend its life, but eventually, replacement is unavoidable. Replace your water heater to avoid high maintenance costs.
Understanding Water Heaters
Understanding your water heaters before buying or replacing them is crucial because you are going to take the ball in your hands. There are a lot of things that can cross your mind to think about it like how does long last a water heater? “What is the lifespan of a 50-gallon water heater?” or which size of water heater is best to install in a mini apartment? It depends on your choice as water heaters have many types. However, the longevity of a water heater is more linked to its category rather than its capacity.
Types of Water Heaters
Primarily, households rely on two distinct types of water heaters:
Conventional Tank Water Heaters
Conventional water heaters contain a large reservoir of water that is consistently heated to provide hot water whenever required.
How long do conventional water heaters last?
The average lifespan of a traditional water heater is about 11 years, but it can last anywhere from 6 to 15 years.
What causes conventional water heaters to fail?
There are a few things that can cause your storage tank water heater to fail prematurely:
Sediment build-up
Anode rod corrosion
Not enough maintenance
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are an innovation that can generate hot water immediately. It works the same as other water heaters using a gas burner or electric coils. These water heaters are known as the latest ones and are replacing the traditional ones because of their lower maintenance demand. In addition, tankless water heaters last longer than tanked water heaters. Tanked water heaters last up to 15 years and then require replacement, whereas a tankless one could efficiently operate for several more years.
How long do tankless water heaters last?
Tankless water heaters have an average lifespan of 15 years, but they can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance.
What causes tankless water heaters to fail?
There are a few things that can affect how long your tankless water heater will last, such as:
- The quality of the unit
- How often it’s used
- The water quality in your area
- Whether it’s properly maintained
Read next: Most Common Water Heater Problems
Factors That Affect Water Heater Lifespan
Several factors that affect the lifespans of water heaters. The major factors are listed below.
Type of Water Heater: As mentioned earlier, conventional tank water heaters have a shorter lifespan compared to tankless ones. Tankless heaters may also be more energy-efficient, thus saving you money in the long run.
Quality of Water: The quality of your water can also affect your water heater’s lifespan. If your water has a high mineral content, it can lead to bacteria and fungi buildup within the tank, reducing its efficiency and longevity. Also, it affects the overall family health. It is necessary to check the quality of your water supply.
Maintenance: Maintenance is a major part of the water heater and other appliances to last long. Without proper care, your water tank will remain not credible as deserves and the lifespan automatically will lower day by day. Also, the sediment buildup and corrosion will lead to earlier failure.
Usage: The frequency at which you use hot water can also play a role in your heater’s lifespan. If you have a large household that uses hot water frequently, your heater may wear out sooner compared to a smaller household with lower usage.
Proper maintenance and routine servicing of your tankless water heater can potentially extend its lifespan to 20 years or more. Conversely, without appropriate care or in geographical regions with hard water, the water heater’s longevity may diminish, possibly lasting only a decade.
Read next: Noticeable Signs Your Water Heater is Going Bad
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacing
Regardless of the diligence with which you maintain your water heater, a time will come when it will necessitate replacement. If you’re uncertain about when to consider replacing your water heater, there exist several indications to remain watchful for.
Age: If your water heater is over 10 years old, it’s time to start considering a replacement.
Rust and Corrosion: If you notice rust or corrosion on the outside of your tank, there may be internal damage that could lead to a leak. It is best to treat it with the help of a professional water heater specialist to avoid mishaps and save money on time.
Strange Noises: If your water heater makes unusual noises, it could be an indication of sediment buildup or other issues that may require replacement. But it can be any other electric issue that should not be DIY.
Leaks: If you notice water leaks around your water heater, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong and needs to be addressed immediately If you don’t know the reasons for a leaking water heater and how to fix it. Get professional help ASAP!
Inconsistent Hot Water: If your hot water supply is inconsistent, it could mean that your water heater is reaching the end of its lifespan.
High Energy Bills: If you notice a significant increase in your energy bills, it could be a sign that your water heater is no longer functioning efficiently and needs replacement.
Should you observe any of these aforementioned indicators, it is advisable to contact a professional for a comprehensive evaluation of your appliance. They possess the expertise to direct you appropriately and estimate when you may need to commence your search for a new water heater.
Need professional help to replace or install a water heater In Dubai?
Many factors go into deciding when to replace your water heater and Fixwell experts can help you make an informed decision. They specialize in water heater replacement and installation services in Dubai, ensuring that your household has a reliable supply of hot water. Avoid extra costs and fewer repairs by scheduling routine maintenance for your water heater. By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your water heater, save money on energy bills, and avoid any sudden emergencies. No matter what you need, we’re always just a phone call away.
FAQ
How long do electric water heaters last?
Electric water heaters generally have a similar lifespan to gas water heaters, averaging around 8 to 12 years. However, with proper maintenance and care, they can last up to 15 years or more. It’s important to remember that the longevity of your electric water heater can also depend on various factors such as usage, quality of water, and regular maintenance.
How long does a conventional or 50-gallon water heater last?
Usually, an 80, 50, or 40-gallon water heater can last 6 to 15 years. Factors like the usage of hot water, type, size, location, quality, and how often you maintain it all play a role in how long it will last. Conventional tank water heaters typically last around 8 to 12 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
How long does a 40-gallon water heater last?
Similar to a 50-gallon water heater, a 40-gallon water heater can last around 8 to 12 years on average.
Can a hot water heater last 20 years?
Yes, with regular checkups, a water heater can potentially last up to 20 years. Tankless water heaters, in particular, have an average lifespan of 20 years or more. However, factors such as type, quality of water, and usage can also impact its lifespan surely.
