How Long Does a Water Heater Last?
You likely don’t think about your water heater much until it stops running. And you’re facing frigid showers. It works hard to provide your Canada home with warm water 24/7, and, as expected, it will eventually wear out.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some warning signs that yours is wearing out. In conclusion, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what model you use and how much it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
The majority of homes have a tank water heater that holds 40 to 50 gallons of water. This style continuously heats water, so it’s always at the right temperature when you need it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their cheaper purchase price, but they don’t usually run as long as other models.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to run:
- Gas water heater: 10 years
- Electric water heater: 12 years
Tank water heaters can quit working due to numerous problems, but a rusted tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special part known as an anode rod that removes corrosive grit from the water. At some point, the rod will rust, and particles will increase at the foundation of your water heater, eating through the lining inside the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much longer working life than its tank-style counterparts. These water heaters could last up to 20 years.
In addition to lasting longer, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. As opposed to storing large amounts of water that’s warmed all the time, a tankless model warms up water on demand. This eliminates standby heating and the mark it makes on your monthly energy bills.
You might not be aware, but warming up water accounts for a large portion of your heating and cooling expenses. In actuality, it’s the second largest source of energy use in a standard house, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are pricier than tank water heaters, but they have long-term energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that stores water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Signs Your Water Heater is Dying
Your hot water heater will start showing hints that it’s dying. Here’s what to watch and when to get in touch with a plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most typical symptoms that your water heater is wearing out. You could notice heated water getting used up faster, or that it requires additional time to have hot water.
2. Leaks
It’s time to call a plumber if you’re having water leaks or water accumulating around the bottom of your water heater. In some instances you could just need to have connections checked or a part replaced, but it could also be a indication the tank is compromised.
3. Water is Cloudy
If you live in a location with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re probably familiar with having cloudy water. But if your water all of a sudden changes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metallic, we recommend having your water heater inspected by a professional to stop damaging leaks. Sudden changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably accumulating in the tank and oxidizing it.
4. Strange Noises
It’s typical for your water heater to make some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling is never normal and is a symptom you should get pro assistance. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and could use additional energy in the process.
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Makes Water Heater Replacement Easy
Procrastinating water heater replacement could result in that can damage your house. Also, there’s the irritation of being without hot water. If your water heater is old or showing clues it needs to be replaced, reach our Experts at 866-397-3787 to request a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll go over all the options so you can make the best decision for your home.