How Long Should My Water Heater Last?
The expected life span of a water heater is something customers ask us all the time. If only we had an answer they could take to the bank 100% of the time. It just doesn’t work that way.
What we can offer, however, are some guidelines and rough estimates to help you determine when it might be time to replace your current water heater.
First, here are the primary factors that determine water heater longevity:
- Product quality
- System type (gas, electric, tankless or heat pump)
- Quality of the installation
- Wear and tear
- Water quality
Ongoing Maintenance Helps Your System Last Longer
Water heaters that are professionally and regularly maintained tend to outlast those that aren’t. With a qualified and licensed plumber inspecting your system even just once a year, small issues can be resolved before they become bigger and costlier problems.
Here’s another factor to keep in mind: tankless (on demand) water heaters generally outlast storage tank models since the former don’t store water. Rather, they heat water only as a faucet or appliance calls for hot water. No storage tank means less wear and tear, not to mention lower electricity bills.
Estimated Water Heater Duration
As a rough rule of thumb, here’s what you can expect from your current system or the one you’re thinking about buying:
- Gas storage tank system: 8 – 12 years
- Electric storage tank system: 8 – 12 years
- Tankless water heater: Up to 20 years
- Electric/heat pump system: 13 – 15 years
More Information & Free Quote
At Best Choice Plumbers, we install, maintain, and repair all types of residential hot water systems. What type is right for you and how long might it last? Contact us today to schedule a free in-home hot water analysis and new system proposal. Or, if your current system is lagging in performance, we’d be happy to inspect it and recommend exactly the right solution: repair or replace.