It is that time of the year! Hot showers and a mug full of tea are all you need. What would it be like in such weather if your heating equipment stopped working? Scary right? That is why it is important to know how long water heaters last so that you can replace them before the clock runs out.
On average,a water heater has a lifespan of about 5-15 years;but that depends on factors like the type of machine, maintenance, kind of water that runs through, and usage.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last – According to Types
Here are two types:
Traditional Tank Heater
Traditional tank water heater lasts for about 7 to 13 years. An anode is placed inside the tank to protect the interior lining. It does so by attracting the corrosive particles to itself and doesn’t let the tank corrode.
When the rod exceeds its limits, particles settle at the bottom of the tank, eventually destroying the lining.
Tankless Water Heaters
This type of water heaters last 15 to 20 years or even longer.
These devices do not work in continuity to maintain a hot water supply. That’s why they last longer than the other type.
Signs Indicating Its Time To Let Your Existing Water Heater Go
The hot water smells like rotten eggs
If you sense a weird smell or taste of your hot water coming out, it is a definite proof of a contaminant inside the water tank.
The reason could be anything, the metal absorbed in water or bacteria accumulating inside the tank. Try cleaning the tank first before taking any action. If that doesn’t work, it may be time to call a plumber.
It’s Not Supplying Enough Hot Water
You certainly do not want to shiver in cold water instead of hot. The heater is failing if your faucet has a cold instead of hot water flowing.
Here’s how you can check when it’s a problem. Run the shower or faucet for some time. If, after minutes, you are only getting cold water, it may be an indicator of excess sediment in your water heater.
Rusty Water
Steel is the toughest material you will find, but it has just one issue, and that isit’s prone to rust. Corrosion eats away the steel surface and slowly spreads certain spots. If it starts on the water pipes and tanks, take it as a warning sign for upcoming leaks.
However, the main issue is that you can’t be sure whether the rust is from the water heater or the pipes to your faucet.
Hard water
Your water heater won’t last long if the water quality flowing through it is not good. Hard water is no less than a nightmare for your water heater. It lessens its life by 2 or more years.
If you see white lime scale up on plumbing tops, you may need to have frequent replacements.
Temperature Drops
If the water coming from your heater via the faucet doesn’t heat up as much as it should or used to, then the heater may be nearing the end of its life.
Final Words
It is better to be prepared before it finally happens. It is not a good strategy to let tragedy happen. Keep these pointers in mind, and never ignore a sign. If your current machine needs a check, contact Water heater repair in Houston from ER Ideal Plumbing. Call (281) 799-9694 for an appointment today.