How long should a water heater last? Signs it's time to replace yours
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A tank water heater usually lasts 8 to 12 years, and a tankless unit 15 to 20. But age is only part of the story: water quality, maintenance and how hard the unit works all change the answer.
Five signs your water heater is near the end
- It is over ten years old. Check the serial number on the label; the first four digits are often the month and year.
- Rusty or discoloured hot water can mean the inside of the tank is corroding.
- Rumbling or popping comes from sediment baking on the bottom of the tank.
- Water around the base is the most urgent sign. A tank leak only gets worse.
- Hot water runs out quickly because sediment is taking up space where water should be.
Water pooling under the tank? Turn off the cold supply valve above the heater and the power or gas, then call us on (555) 010-0142.
Repair or replace?
Our rule of thumb: if the unit is under eight years old and the tank itself is not leaking, a repair is usually the better value. Thermostats, heating elements, anode rods and valves are all inexpensive to replace.
If a repair would cost more than half the price of a new heater, and the unit is past ten years, replacing it almost always saves money.
Newer heaters are also noticeably more efficient. Upgrading a 15-year-old tank can cut water heating costs by 10 to 20 percent.
How to make your next heater last longer
- Flush the tank once a year to clear sediment.
- Check the anode rod every two to three years.
- Keep the thermostat at 120°F (49°C): safe, efficient and gentler on the tank.
- Install an expansion tank if your home has a pressure-reducing valve.
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The bottom line
If your heater is showing two or more of the signs above, it is worth a professional look before it fails at the worst possible moment. Our water heater check is quick, and we will tell you honestly whether a repair makes sense.