Having access to warm, running water is essential in most households. An average person uses the water of varying warmth up to 20 times daily, from showers, baths, hand-washing, cooking, laundry, and dishwashing. Each member’s usage multiplied by that number brings into perspective the demands placed on the water heater.
There is a good chance that your water heater will need to be replaced sooner or later. The lifespan of a water heater – even the best – is roughly a decade, whether due to usage strain or the age of the tank. The lifespan can be extended through annual maintenance and water heater repair in Kent, WA, but if you’ve occupied a house for more than eight years, you’re likely to need an entirely new unit installed. Thus, homeowners must recognize the signs indicating water heater replacement in Auburn, WA.
Tankless Water Heaters: How Long Do They Last?
There is no straight line to determine the lifespan of a tankless water heater. Heat exchangers installed in your unit can have varying lifespans.
Usually, tankless water heaters last between 15 and 20 years when properly maintained. Your tankless water heater comes with a 12-to-15-year warranty when it has a copper tankless heat exchanger. The copper heat exchanger in a tankless water heater can last as long as 20 years if properly treated with water heater repair in Auburn, WA.
The lifespan of your tankless water heater is increased by installing a stainless steel heat exchanger. A tankless water heater with stainless steel heat exchangers generally comes with a 15- to 25-year warranty. Tankless water heaters can last approximately 25 to 30 years if properly maintained and treated.
How Long Will Hot Water Tanks Last?
The average life expectancy of a conventional tank water heater is 8-12 years. It can last for more than 15 years when used and maintained properly. As a result of its anode rod, the tank’s interior lining is protected from corrosion by corrosive elements in the water.
The corrosive particles settle and damage the tank’s interior lining, including its bottom. It is not uncommon for the rod of a tank water heater to get eaten away after prolonged use (about ten years). The tank may leak at that point and require water heater repair in Sumner, WA.
When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?
There are several obvious signs that a water heater needs to be repaired: the hot water faucet fails to deliver hot water, there is dripping or puddles near the water heater, or there are unusual gurgling or popping sounds from the tank. If you see any warning signs, you will likely need a water heater replacement in Puyallup, WA.
If you discover that you have some of these warning signs, you will have time to make choices in terms of type, size, and model before you rush to replace it after your house has been flooded with water on next night.
Here are some warning signs to look for:
- Age: Water heaters over nine to twelve years old often have accidents waiting to happen, especially if installed in areas subject to water damage. Replace the old one if necessary.
- Strange noises: A tank’s sediment deposit often causes it to sound as if it is banging or cracking due to sediment deposits. A water heater showing excessive sediment buildup may indicate that it needs to be replaced.
- Lukewarm or cold water: There is a very simple job that a water heater performs: it heats the water. A heater that isn’t performing as well as it used to may need to be replaced if it isn’t performing as well as it used to.
- Rust: The presence of rust on the exterior of your appliance is usually obvious. Corrosion on the inside of a tank can cause water to appear discolored or metallic-tasting. There is no way to water heater repair in Puyallup, WA, if it is a rusted hot water tank.
- Leakage. When you notice your hot water tank leaking, you almost always need to replace it immediately!
How to Care for a Water Heater
Maintenance is important for maintaining and extending the life of any appliance, including water heaters.
The anode rod of a tank water heater helps to clean the water by drawing all particles to it, unlike those used in tankless water heaters. As a result, the tank will not corrode as quickly. In contrast, when the tank loses its strength, it rusts rapidly and leaves behind particles at the bottom.
You should call a plumber after 12 months to have any mineral deposits removed. For corrosion prevention, you should replace and practice water heater repair in Tacoma, WA the anode rod every 2-3 years.
Final Thoughts
The Dicks Heating team is committed to providing you with the most accurate information to help you make the best decision for your home and yourself. You can contact us if you have any questions regarding the benefits of having a tankless water heater, how to maintain one, which water heater size is right for you, and how it compares to a conventional water heater if you’re in the market for one.
