When Will My Water Heater Need to be Exchanged? 

You usually don’t think about your water heater a lot until it quits heating. And you’re dealing with cold showers. It works hard to provide your the U.S. home with heated water 24 hours a day, and, naturally, it will stop working eventually. 

Here’s how long your water heater will probably last and some warning signs that yours is needing to be replaced. In the end, how long your water heater will last depends on what type you rely on and how frequently it’s on. 

Tank Water Heater 

Most people have a tank water heater that retains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This kind continually heats water, so it’s always at the right temperature when you need it. Tank water heaters are bestsellers because of their more economical cost, but they don’t typically work as long as other models. 

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

• Gas water heater: 10 years 
• Electric water heater: 12 years 

Tank water heaters can quit working because of a lot of troubles, but a rusted tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special component referred to as an anode rod that extracts corrosive grit from the water. At some point, the rod will oxidize, and grit will build up at the base of your water heater, eating through the lining within the tank. 

Tankless Water Heater 

A tankless water heater has a much bigger working life than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters could run as long as 20 years. 

In addition to running longer, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. Rather than retaining large amounts of water that’s warmed constantly, a tankless model heats water when you want it. This gets rid of standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly energy bills. 

You might not know this, but heating water accounts for a large portion of your utility costs. In actuality, it’s the second highest source of energy consumption in an average home, according to ENERGY STAR®. 

Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they have lasting energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that retains water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

4 Indications Your Water Heater is Wearing Out 

Your hot water heater will start to show hints that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to keep an eye out for and when to get in touch with a plumbing professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. 

1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water 

This is one of the most common clues that your water heater is wearing out. You could see heated water getting depleted more rapidly, or that you need more time for water to warm up. 

2. Leaks 

It’s time to call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water pooling by the base of your water heater. In some instances you could just need to have connections secured or a part replaced, but it may also be a symptom the tank is compromised. 

3. Water Isn’t Clear 

If you live in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely used to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly goes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling like metal, you should have your water heater inspected by a professional to avoid damaging leaks. Immediate changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably growing in the tank and oxidizing it. 

4. Odd Noises 

It’s expected for your water heater to create some noise as it runs. But popping and rumbling is never normal and is a hint you should get professional assistance. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and might consume added 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 home. There’s also the annoyance of not having hot water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing clues it needs to be replaced, contact our Experts at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll go over all the options so you can make the ideal decision for your house.