Having trouble with your water heater and not sure what to do next? You’ve come to the right place! At Fairborn Plumbing & Drain, we understand the headaches that come with water heater issues, especially if it’s your first time dealing with them. You might be wondering what questions to ask, whether your water heater needs a repair or a replacement, and why it might need replacing in the first place. We’re here to clear up all those concerns!
Our mission is to give you a smooth, hassle-free experience for all your home needs. So, let’s tackle one of the most common questions today – how long does a water heater usually last?
What’s the Typical Lifespan of a Water Heater?
A water heater usually lasts about 8 years, but some can go up to 10 years if well-maintained. So, if yours has hit the ten-year mark, it’s likely nearing the end of its life. Regular maintenance and planning ahead can help avoid unpleasant surprises. After all, nobody likes unexpected problems.
How Does the Lifespan of a Water Heater Vary?
Several factors influence how long your water heater will last. Keep these in mind:
- Regular Use – How much water you use impacts your heater’s lifespan. While you don’t need to limit your usage, it’s good to be aware of it.
- Preventative Maintenance – Regular check-ups and annual flushing can make your unit last longer. As a result, neglecting these tasks can speed up wear and tear.
- Water Quality – Hard or soft water matters. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up over time, impacting your system’s lifespan and efficiency.
- Installation Quality – Poor installation can lead to faster wear and tear, possible damage, and even safety hazards for your home.
- Equipment Quality – Opting for a cheaper, lower quality brand for a heavily used machine compromises its lifespan. The materials in these appliances greatly affect their overall functionality and durability.
When Should You Consider Replacing Your Water Heater?
Several signs can indicate your water heater is nearing the end of its life:
- Rusty Water – If the water from your faucet looks discolored or “rusty,” it might be time for a replacement. The same goes if your water has a “metallic” smell or taste.
- Water Not Heating – When your water heater isn’t meeting your hot water needs, it could be due to sediment buildup or wear and tear, which might mean you need a new one.
- Water Leakage – If you notice water pooling around your unit, call a professional to check it out immediately. Depending on what the issue is exactly, you might need a replacement.
- Age – As mentioned before, the age of your water heater is a big factor in deciding if it needs to be replaced. If it’s over ten years old, you might want to think about getting a new one.
- Frequent Repairs – If you’re dealing with ongoing problems that need multiple repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a newer, more energy-efficient unit.
What Can You Do to Extend Your Water Heater’s Lifespan?
Since water heating makes up about 18% of a household’s energy costs, it’s smart to keep your water heater in great shape. Regular maintenance can help it run smoothly and last longer.
- Flushing Your Water Heater: Sediment buildup can cause overheating, leading to expensive repairs and a shorter lifespan. Remember, regular flushing of your water heater prevents these issues and keeps it efficient.
- Avoiding High Water Temperatures: Setting your water heater too high can also wear it out faster.
- Preventing Exterior Rust Buildup: Rust on the outside of the unit can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Keeping up with your regular plumbing checks and maintenance can stop this.
- Staying Current with Annual Maintenance: Don’t skip your yearly plumbing inspections, even if they seem unnecessary. Keeping up ensures everything runs smoothly. A licensed plumber can catch minor issues before they become big problems. For thorough plumbing inspections, give us a call and make sure your home’s plumbing is in top shape.
Keeping track of your water heater’s age is a smart move to plan for its eventual replacement. Need help to figure out its age or want a free water heater estimate for a new one? Whatever you need or any questions you have, we’re here to help!
Call Fairborn Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-3116 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!