Anyone who’s ever had to take an unexpected cold shower knows how unpleasant a water heater breakdown can be. Going without hot water makes your life a lot harder when it comes to things like showering, washing dishes or doing laundry.
At Jim’s Plumbing Now, we understand how important it is to stay in the know when it comes to your water heater and keeping hot water on tap. Read on to learn more about your hot water heater’s life span, how to extend its life and when it’s time for a replacement!
Water Heater Lifespan
Traditional tanked water heaters last roughly from 8-12 years depending on factors such as water quality, quality of installation and location of the unit. Tanked heaters are typically found in most older homes, while other newer properties are being built with tankless heating systems.
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, can last even longer — for up to 20 years. These types of water heaters operate more efficiently by heating water as needed instead of keeping an entire tank of water hot. Since on-demand heaters have more replaceable parts than tank heaters they’re easier to repair without replacing the entire unit, which contributes to their longer lifespan.
How To Make Your Water Heater Last
While your heating system is only built to last a certain number of years, there are steps you can take to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Here are some things you can do to extend the life of your water heater:
- Flush your tank regularly — This will remove any sediment build-up that could damage the unit’s interior components.
- Invest in a water softener — A water softener will improve your water quality overall and help prevent harmful sediment build-up.
- Test the pressure relief valve — A malfunctioning valve won’t release excess pressure from the tank, increasing the risk of your water heater breaking!
- Schedule routine maintenance — Regular maintenance helps you identify issues early on and minimize the need for big costly repairs.
Should You Replace Your Water Heater?
While repairing your existing water heater is usually recommended when possible, other times it’s better to opt for a replacement if you have an older unit. Here are some signs that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan:
- Rusty or discolored water coming from the tap
- Water tastes and smells like metal
- Water takes a while to heat up
- Heater is older than 15 years
For some homeowners, this is a good time to find out more about tankless options. While tankless water heaters are often more efficient, they’re not the best fit for every home. Our expert plumbers will be able to provide tailored recommendations based on your home to help determine the best fit for you.
Your Carrollton Water Heater Service Specialists!
Whether you’re interested in water heater repair or looking to explore replacement options, the plumbing experts at Jim’s Plumbing Now have got you covered! Contact us today to schedule a consultation to ensure you never go another day without a hot shower!
