What’s the Average Lifespan for a Water Heater?

Woman thinking about air conditioning and heating problems

A water heater is an important part of any home. It provides hot water for bathing, cleaning, and other household tasks. But how long does a water heater last?

How long a water heater lasts depends on a number of factors, including the type of water heater and the quality of maintenance it receives. In this blog post, we will discuss the average lifespan of different types of water heaters. We will also provide tips on how to extend the life of your water heater!

How Long Does a Tank Water Heater Last?

Tank water heaters are one of the most common types of water heaters. They are relatively affordable and can last up to 12 years with proper maintenance. To make a tank water heater last longer, be sure to flush the water heater every six months. You should also consider installing a water softener if your home has hard water.

How Long Does a Tankless Water Heater Last?

Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank-style heaters, but they have longer lifespans and use less energy over time. A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance! The most important thing to remember is that you must flush out the system at least once per year. If there is not an automatic flushing mechanism installed in your unit, then make sure this happens manually.

How to Make Water Heaters Last Longer

In addition to flushing and cleaning the system, there are a few other things you can do to make your water heater last longer:

  • Make sure the unit is properly sized for your home. A unit that is too small will not be able to heat enough water, while a unit that is too large will cycle on and off frequently and wear out faster.
  • Install a thermostat valve to regulate the temperature of the water. This will help prolong the life of the heating elements.
  • Avoid running hot water constantly. Instead, try to use cold water as much as possible and only turn on the hot tap when necessary.

Final Word

How long does a water heater last? It depends! There are many factors at play when determining the life span of different kinds of heaters, including how well they’re maintained and what type of unit you have installed in your home. The average lifespan for traditional units ranges between eight to 12 years, while newer models can last up to 20 with proper care and maintenance routines like flushing out sediments annually. For assistance with all things, heating and air in Atlanta and Roswell turn to Moncrief.

Read our guide to HVAC warranties and repairs.