When Will My Water Heater Need to be Replaced? 

You likely don’t think about your water heater a lot until it gives up running. And you’re facing cold showers. It works hard to offer your the U.S. household with warm water around the clock, and, naturally, it will give out at some point. 

Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some hints that yours is nearing the end of its life. In conclusion, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what kind you use and how often it’s on. 

Tank Water Heater 

The majority of people have a tank water heater that contains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continuously makes water warm, so it’s always at the correct temp when you desire it. Tank water heaters are popular as a result of their more economical price tag, but they don’t usually work as long as other types. 

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 stop working due to many problems, but a corroded tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special piece known as an anode rod that draws corrosive grit from the water. Eventually, the rod will rust, and fragments will increase at the foundation of your water heater, eating through the lining in the tank. 

Tankless Water Heater 

A tankless water heater has a much greater life span than its tank-style counterparts. These water heaters can run as many as 20 years. 

Along with running longer, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. Rather than retaining big amounts of water that’s warmed constantly, a tankless model heats water when you want it. This gets rid of standby heating and the mark it makes on your monthly gas and electrical costs. 

You might not realize it, but heating up water is a large chunk of your heating and cooling bills. In fact, it’s the second highest source of energy use in a regular residence, according to ENERGY STAR®. 

Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they provide long-term energy savings. They are typically 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that holds on to water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

4 Indications Your Water Heater is Dying 

Your hot water heater will start showing signs that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to keep an eye out for and when to call a plumbing professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. 

1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water 

This is one of the most typical clues that your water heater needs to be replaced. You might see heated water getting used up more rapidly, or that it requires more time to get warm water. 

2. Leaks 

It’s time to call a plumber if you’re seeing water leaks or water gathering near the base of your water heater. In some instances you may just need to have connections checked or a piece replaced, but it might also be a indication the tank is compromised. 

3. Water is Cloudy 

If you live in a region with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely used to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metallic, we advise having your water heater examined by a professional to prevent damaging leaks. Sudden changes in your water clarity means sediment is possibly building up in the tank and oxidizing it. 

4. Weird Noises 

It’s normal for your water heater to create some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling is never normal and is a hint you need specialized assistance. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and might need additional energy in the process. 

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Makes Water Heater Replacement Easy 

Waiting too long for water heater replacement puts you at risk of leaks that can damage your residence. There’s also the annoyance of being without hot water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing signs it needs to be replaced, give our Experts a call 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 ideal decision for your home.