How Long Water Heaters Last and the Signs Yours Is Near the End
Your home is one of the most important places, and maintenance is not something everyone thinks about. Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until the hot water stops. Knowing the typical lifespan and warning signs helps you plan a replacement instead of dealing with a failed water heater.
In this article, we cover:
- Lifespan by type
- Finding your unit’s age
- Warning signs
- What shortens your water heater’s lifespan
- Maintenance
- Repair vs. replacement
Planning helps you avoid water heater failure, damage to your home, emergency replacement, inconvenience, and added costs.
Average Water Heater Lifespan at a Glance
On average, traditional tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years, while tankless heaters last 15 to 20 years. Hybrid water heaters last 13 to 15 years. The US Department of Energy (DOE) puts the typical storage water heater lifespan at 10 to 15 years.
However, these averages are not a guarantee. The lifespan of a water heater depends on the type, build quality, local water quality, and the heater’s maintenance.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters keep a ready water supply in a steel vessel around the clock. If the tank leaks, it usually means the entire unit needs to be replaced, which gives this water heater the shortest lifespan.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters work differently. This type heats water by passing it through a heat exchanger, which eliminates the need for a tank that can rust. While this type does not need a tank to operate, other components can eventually corrode too.
Hybrid (Heat Pump) Water Heaters
Hybrid water heaters don’t run continuously, which helps them outlast traditional tank heaters. But they still use a tank, so they don’t last as long as tankless models.
According to the DOE, heat pump water heaters are two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric tank heaters.
How to Tell How Old Your Water Heater Is
For homeowners who bought a house with a water heater already installed, it’s difficult to know when the unit was installed. Without installation records, you can find the serial number on the heater’s sticker or metal plate, which you can use to look it up online or call the manufacturer to learn its age.
Once you know the age, compare it to typical lifespan ranges for its type. If a unit is older than the typical range, plan to replace it soon.
Signs Your Water Heater Is Near the End
Keep an eye out for these signs, especially for tank water heaters.
Water Around the Base of the Tank
Check for water or sediment on the floor or at the bottom of the heater. This can mean that the heater is at the end of its lifespan, though not every leak means tank failure.
Check for loose connectors, faulty valves, or internal tank problems. These can all cause leaks. If you are unsure, a professional can help you determine the root cause.
This is the highest-urgency sign. You can’t repair a leaking tank.
Rusty or Discolored Hot Water
If there’s rusty or discolored water coming from the faucets, that may be a sign of the tank rusting from the inside. Discolored water is one sign that a tank-based water heater is close to failing.
Rumbling, Popping, or Other Strange Noises
Keep an ear out for unusual noises. They can point to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.
Water heaters with no issues are typically quiet, so unusual noises are worth a checkup from a plumber.
Running Out of Hot Water or Lukewarm Water
A reduced hot water supply is a warning sign for tank heaters. Sediment can be a problem. As it builds up at the bottom, it reduces heating efficiency.
Keep in mind that a tank that’s too small for a household can also cause shortages. Running out of hot water doesn’t always mean the unit is failing.
Rising Energy Bills
One of the easiest signs to spot is an unexpected jump in energy bills. As water heaters age, they run less efficiently and require more energy to heat water.
Age Alone
A lack of symptoms doesn’t mean a unit past its expected lifespan is in the clear. You could face an unexpected breakdown. Water heaters past their range can cause inconvenience and added cost.
What Wears Out a Water Heater?
There are several reasons and causes for wear or damage to a water heating unit.
Sediment Buildup
Settling minerals build up at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing odd noises.
Hard Water
Hard water can leave mineral buildup on the heating element and inside the water tank, shortening a water heater’s lifespan. Homeowners with a water softener tend to get more years out of their heaters.
A Depleted Anode Rod
The anode rod is a component in the system that draws limestone, iron, and other minerals away from vulnerable parts of the tank. Checking it is an important part of routine maintenance.
High Water Pressure
When the water pressure is too high, it can stress the tank. Tank and hybrid units have a pressure valve that releases pressure if the tank overheats.
Installation Quality
Installation can play a major role in a unit’s lifespan. A properly installed water heater lasts longer than one installed incorrectly. Working with an experienced, licensed installer helps you avoid premature issues.
How to Help Your Water Heater Last Longer
You can help your water heater last longer by:
- Flushing: Perform an annual flush on tank-type heaters. This clears out sediment and buildup from the tank.
- Hybrid heat pump models: Just as you do with traditional tanks, you need to drain or flush heat pumps once or twice annually.
- Tankless models: Visual inspections cover most of the maintenance needs for this type. But still clean the inlet filters and replace blown fuses.
- Gas models: Ensure the burner assembly is clean to maintain efficient operation and extend the lifespan.
- General principle: Maintaining heaters helps them outlive neglected ones.
If you have any concerns, it’s always better to talk to a professional. They can help you determine if there’s an issue and how to maintain a water heating unit.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?
An issue doesn’t mean you need to replace a unit. Several factors affect that decision.
When a Repair Makes Sense
If a water heater is within its expected lifespan, and the main problem is a part, like connectors or valves, repair makes sense.
When Replacement Makes Sense
A leaking tank usually means replacement, but if you’re unsure, consider the rule of thumb:
If a repair costs more than half the price of a new installation, replacement is the better choice.
Determine what issues are present and talk to a professional to decide if replacement makes more sense.
Choosing a Replacement
If a replacement is the best choice, don’t automatically buy the same size. Take the replacement as an opportunity to reassess the household’s water needs. Whatever your water needs, consider that manufacturers provide longer warranties for models designed to last longer.
Water Heater FAQ
How many years does a typical water heater last?
Tank heaters range between 8 to 12 years, tankless 15 to 20, and hybrids 13 to 15.
Why do tankless water heaters last longer than tank models?
They typically last longer because they don’t use a water tank that can corrode or leak.
Is a noisy water heater a problem?
It can be. Noise is usually a sign of sediment buildup and is worth a checkup.
Does hard water really affect a water heater?
Yes, mineral buildup shortens the lifespan of a water heater. Water softeners can help.
How often should I flush my water heater?
Plan for annual flushing for traditional tanks and once or twice a year for heat pump models.
Talk to a Water Heater Professional You Can Trust
Cannonball Mechanical is family-owned and has been serving since February 1974. Each one of our team members is union-trained, licensed, bonded, and insured, with at least 20 years of experience. We offer professional water heater installation and repair for every building type and guarantee our work.
If you have questions or would like a free estimate on a water heater installation or replacement, call 630-896-4888 and speak with one of our knowledgeable team members. We offer support after-hours and on weekends. You can also contact us online, and we will reach out as soon as possible!
