How Long Do Water Heaters Last? Understanding the Lifespan of Your Water Heater

Water heaters are one of the most important appliances in our homes. We rely on them for hot showers, clean clothes, and clean dishes.

However, we often take them for granted and forget about them until they stop working. The lifespan of your water heater is an important factor to consider when choosing a replacement or deciding whether to invest in repairs.

In this blog post, we will explore how long water heaters last, what factors affect their lifespan, and how to extend their life.

How Long Water Heaters Last & Factors That Impact Lifespan

On average, water heaters last between 10 to 15 years. However, the lifespan of your water heater can vary based on several factors.

Factor #1: The Type of Water Heater

The first factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater is the type of water heater you have.

Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional tank heaters and can last up to 20 years or more.

Traditional tank heaters typically last 10 to 15 years.

Factor #2: Quality of Water Heater Installation

The second factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater is the quality of the installation.

A poorly installed water heater can lead to leaks, overheating, and other issues that can decrease the lifespan of your water heater. If your water heater was installed by a licensed plumber, it will likely last longer than an improperly installed unit.

Factor #3: Regular Water Heater Maintenance

The third factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater is the maintenance.

Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank of sediment buildup, can help extend the life of your water heater. Neglecting maintenance can cause damage to the tank, heating elements, and other components, which can result in the need for premature replacement.

Factor #4: Quality of the Water

The fourth factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater is the quality of your water. Hard water with high mineral content can cause buildup in your tank, which can lead to damage and decreased lifespan.

Installing a water softener or descaler can help prevent this issue.

 Factor #5: Your Water Heater’s Usage

The fifth factor that affects the lifespan of your water heater is usage.

The more hot water you use, the more wear and tear your water heater will experience. If you have a large family or frequent guests, your water heater will have to work harder and may have a shorter lifespan.

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

We've discussed five factors that can impact your water heater's life span. Now lets briefly go over a few things you can do to help extend the life of your water heater.

Tip #1: Flush Your Water Heater Annually

First, make sure to flush it out on a yearly basis.

This helps remove any sediment or mineral buildup that can cause damage and reduce the efficiency of the heater.

Tip #2: Check the Temperature

Second, check its temperature regularly.

If the water is too hot, corrosion can occur due to the breakdown of metals in the system. Therefore, you should adjust the temperature to a comfortable level and use an insulating blanket around the tank to keep temperatures down while retaining heat.

Tip #3: Check for Leaks

Third, check for possible leaks and repair them promptly if you find any.

Leaks can allow cold air into the system and cause a drop in efficiency which will eventually lead to increased wear and tear on the components of your water heater.

Tip #4 Regular Maintenance

Finally, invest in regular maintenance checks by a licensed plumber. 

A licensed plumber will be able to spot any potential problems before they get out of hand. They can then recommend modifications or repairs needed for optimal performance of your water heater.

With regular maintenance and these simple steps taken care of, you should be able to ensure that your water heater lasts as long as possible.

Wrapping it All Up

Overall, the lifespan of your water heater depends on a variety of factors.

While the average lifespan is between 10 to 15 years, factors such as the type of water heater, quality of installation, maintenance, quality of water, and usage can significantly impact the lifespan.

Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision when it comes to replacing or repairing your water heater.

Additionally, investing in regular maintenance and caring for your water heater can extend its lifespan, which can save you money in the long run.

Call Us for Water Heater Repair, Replacement, and Maintenance

AtMr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Lansing Area, we’ve been serving water heaters for over 10 years. When it comes to water heater repairs and replacements, we've seen it all.

We're backed by a great reputation throughout the Greater Lansing area and back our services with reliable warranties.

If you need to schedule a water heater repair, replacement, or maintenance service, reach out to us online today!