When Will My Water Heater Need Replacing? 

You probably don’t think about your water heater much until it stops heating. And you’re facing cold showers. It works hard to offer your the U.S. household with hot water around the clock, and, unsurprisingly, it will give out at some point.

Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some indications that yours is nearing the end of its life. In conclusion, how long your water heater will last depends on what kind you rely on and how much it’s working.

Tank Water Heater

Many people have a tank water heater that contains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continuously warms water, so it’s always at the right temp when you desire it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their more economical price tag, but they don’t typically last as long as other kinds.

Here’s how many years you can expect yours to run:

• • Gas water heater: 10 years

• • Electric water heater: 12 years

Tank water heaters can stop working because of a lot of problems, but a rusted tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special piece called an anode rod that extracts corrosive particles from the water. Eventually, the rod will oxidize, and grit will build up at the foundation of your water heater, corroding the lining in the tank.

Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater has a much greater working life than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters can last as many as 20 years.

In addition to working for a longer amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. As opposed to retaining large amounts of water that’s warmed all the time, a tankless model heats water on demand. This eliminates standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly gas and electrical expenses.

You might not know this, but heating water takes up a sizeable portion of your heating and cooling expenses. In actuality, it’s the second highest source of energy use in an average residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Tankless water heaters are pricier 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 Signs Your Water Heater is Wearing Out

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

1. Insufficient Enough Hot Water

This is one of the most common symptoms that your water heater needs to be replaced. You may notice heated water running out more rapidly, or that it’s taking extra time to get warm water.

2. Leaks

It’s time to call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water accumulating around the foundation of your water heater. In some cases you could just need to have connections checked or a piece replaced, but it may also be a sign the tank is broken.

3. Water Isn’t Clear

If you live in a location with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely used to having cloudy water. But if your water all of a sudden switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling like metal, you should have your water heater checked by a specialist to avoid damaging leaks. Immediate changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably building up in the tank and oxidizing it.

4. Odd Noises

It’s expected for your water heater to create some noise as it operates. 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 may need extra energy in the process.

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

Waiting too long for water heater replacement could lead to that can damage your residence. Also, there’s the irritation of not having heated water. If your water heater is old 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 discuss all the options so you can make the best decision for your home.