When Will My Water Heater Need Replacing? 

You probably don’t think about your water heater a lot until it stops working. And you’re faced with frigid showers. It works hard to provide your the U.S. family with hot water around the clock, and, unsurprisingly, it will eventually wear out. 

Here’s how long your water heater will likely last and some hints that yours is nearing the end of its life. In the end, how long your water heater will last depends on what kind you have and how much it’s on. 

Tank Water Heater 

Most households have a tank water heater that retains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continuously heats water, so it’s always at the correct setting when you want it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their cheaper price tag, but they don’t typically work as long as other types. 

Here’s how long you can expect yours to run: 

Tank water heaters can quit working because of a lot of troubles, but a rusted tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special part referred to as an anode rod that clears corrosive fragments from the water. At some point, the rod will rust, and particles will increase at the foundation of your water heater, rusting out the lining within the tank. 

Tankless Water Heater 

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

Along with running longer, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. Instead of storing large amounts of water that’s warmed constantly, a tankless model warms water when you want it. This does away with standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly utility bills. 

You might not know this, but warming up water accounts for a big portion of your energy bills. In actuality, it’s the second largest source of energy utilization in an average house, according to ENERGY STAR®

Tankless water heaters are higher priced than tank water heaters, but they have long-term energy savings. They can be 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that stores water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy

4 Hints Your Water Heater is Dying 

Your hot water heater will begin to show clues that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to be on the lookout for and when to contact a plumbing pro like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. 

1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water 

This is one of the most typical clues that your water heater is nearing the end of its life. You could notice warm water getting used up faster, or that you need extra time to have hot water. 

2. Leaks 

It’s time to call a plumber if you’re having water leaks or water pooling by the foundation of your water heater. In some cases you might just need to have connections tightened or a component replaced, but it could also be a indication the tank is damaged. 

3. Water Looks White 

If you are in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re typically familiar with having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, you should have your water heater inspected by a plumber to prevent damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is likely growing in the tank and oxidizing it. 

4. Odd Noises 

It’s typical for your water heater to generate some noise as it runs. But popping and rumbling is never normal and is a hint you should call for professional help. As sediment accumulates in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and could consume more energy in the process. 

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

Procrastinating water heater replacement could lead to that can damage your residence. Not to mention, the inconvenience of being without heated water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing signs 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 review all the options so you can make the ideal decision for your residence. 

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >
parts and labor icon

$50 OFF Any Repair

  • Save $50 on a Paid Service
  • Written 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
  • Plus, ask how to save an additional 15% and waive your trip charge!
print

Make No Payments for 30 Days!

  • Upgrade to Worry-Free Comfort with the Advantage Program and make NO payments for 30 days!
print

© 2024 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.