Many people ask, 'How long will my water heaters last?' While your water heater may go at any time there are some general rules when regards to your knowing when it will go or how long it will last. In this post, we will discuss some of the ways to tell when you should change your water heater or maybe just need a repair.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

As a general rule of thumb, most water heaters typically last between 10 to 15 years.  Just how long yours lasts, depends on a few different factors.  First and foremost is what kind of water heater is it?  While getting a cheaper water heater is tempting when looking to replace yours, but it may not always be the best decision. Many cheaper water heaters are made with inferior parts and simply not made to last as long.

Flushing your water heater once per year is something you can do to help the water heater last longer. Many people neglect flushing their water heaters which causes them to work less efficiently and reduces the lifespan.  So depending on how the water heater was maintained could actually have a lot to do with how long yours lasts.

Depending on the material your water heater is made from can also play a variable as to how long your water heater will last. Those made with a fiberglass tank typically last longer and some high end models may actually come with a lifetime warranty.  Most water heaters typically come with a 5 to 6 year warranty, while some of the higher quality ones come with warranties from 10 to 12 years.

If your tank is damaged, they typically can not be repaired regardless of the materials they're made from. 

Why Tanks Fail

There are primarily two reasons that cause a water heater to fail. First is over pressurization. Over pressurization is when the pounds per square inch exceed the specifications of the unit.  This can be caused by either one of two causes, excessive heating or having too much pressure at the inlet. To avoid either of these, it's best to keep the water temperature at or below 140 degrees Fahrenheit.  

The second cause of water tank failure is sediment buildup in the tank. This could be from chemicals or other contaminants in the water that eventually cause corrosion or rust inside the tank, which ultimately may lead to rust. Once a leak occurs it tends to be a self feeding problem that grows over time.

Another factor in determining water heater lifespan is whether it is gas or electric.  Electric heaters typically last slightly longer, but not always. 

Replacing Your Water Heater

When replacing your water heater, it is common for people to stick with the same type of water heater (gas or electric) because the replacement labor and parts costs are cheaper. When shopping for a new water heater, It is best to compare all expenses to determine whether you are getting the best deal or not.