Water Heater Lifespan If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater’s warranty for the most accurate timelines.

How long do water tanks usually last?

about eight to 12 years





Based on the manufacturer’s suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about eight to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.

How often should I replace water heater?

about ten years

Many homeowners wonder “How often should a hot water heater be replaced?” In a typical situation, you should expect your water heater to last about ten years.

How often should you flush water tank?

every six months





Most homeowners should flush their water heaters every six months or so, but if you have extremely hard water, you may want to do it more often. Flushing your hot water heater could be necessary as often as every few months depending on the mineral content of your local water supply.

Should I replace my 15 year old water heater?

Anyway, you should consider replacing your water heater if it’s about 6-12+ years old and when you start running out of hot water faster. However, age and lack of hot water aren’t everything. You could have a 15-year-old water heater that works just fine and wouldn’t need replacing.

How long does a rainwater tank last?

Tank lifespan and warranties

The expected lifetime of any tank should be at least 20 years, and indeed, many tanks come with a 20 or even 25 year warranty. As already discussed, a number of factors will determine just how long the tank actually lasts, including water quality, maintenance and positioning of the tank.

Can a hot water tank last 20 years?



Tankless (“on demand”) water heaters are energy savers. They do not have a storage tank, but instead heat water as needed. Because there’s less wear and tear, tankless models last at least 20 years, and longer with good maintenance.

What are the signs of a hot water tank going bad?

Here are six common signs that your water heater is going bad.

  • Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old. …
  • Water Heater is Leaky. …
  • Water is Discolored. …
  • There’s Not Enough Hot Water. …
  • Water Heater is Making Unusual Noises. …
  • You’re Constantly Having to Have Water Heater Repair.

How do I know if my water heater needs to be replaced?



Signs of Wear

  1. Leaks: If your water heater is leaking, it must be replaced immediately. …
  2. Knocking Noises: Loud noises are an indication of sediment buildup. …
  3. Rusty Water: Water discoloration is a clear sign your unit is underperforming.

Should I replace my 30 year old water heater?

The quality of your water may also affect the lifespan of your water heater. If a water heater is ten years or older, you should start thinking about replacing it. At the least, you should keep a closer eye on it. For example, if you see leaks around the base of your water heater, it’s probably time to replace it.

Should I replace my water heater before it fails?

Unless you replace this rod every few years, your water heater could begin taking a beating. If the tank rusts through, it could fail catastrophically and flood your home. You can avoid this disaster by replacing your water heater before it fails.

Are new water heaters more efficient?

In a conventional gas storage water heater, less than 50% of the fuel energy reaches the point of use. New efficient water heaters can help reduce this excess heat loss. All other things being equal, the smaller the water heater tank, the higher the efficiency rating.

What brand of water heater is the most reliable?



15 Best & Most Reliable Water Heater Brands in the World

  • A.O. Smith. …
  • Rheem. Rheem was founded in 1925 by two brothers, Donald and Richard Rheem – and with financial backing from a third brother, William. …
  • Kenmore. …
  • Bradford White. …
  • American Standard. …
  • American Water Heaters. …
  • Bosch. …
  • EcoSmart.

What size water heater do I need for a family of 5?

Water Heater Sizes

For example, a family of 3 to 4 people should purchase a 50 – 60 gallon water heater. On the other hand, a household with 5 – 7 people may require a water heater with a 60 – 80 gallon water tank.

Which type of water heater is most popular?

Conventional Water Heater Conventional water heaters



1. Conventional Water Heater. Conventional water heaters are among the most popular water heater options. They feature a sizable insulated tank where water is stored and warmed.

Is a 50 gallon water heater enough for a family of 4?

For a four-person family, a 50-gallon water heater is sufficient. 50-gallons is good if you’re using electricity, and 40 gallons will work for natural gas or propane. Families with more than five persons may benefit from an 80-gallon electric water heater or 50-gallon gas water heater.

What kind of hot water tank do I need?

A home with two or fewer people can be served by a 23- to 36-gallon tank. A tank size of 36- to 46-gallons is best for homes of up to four people. A home with five people can be served by a 46- to 56-gallon tank. For six or more people, look at larger tanks with a 60-gallon or greater capacity.

How do I choose a water heater for my home?

When selecting the best type and model of water heater for your home, consider the following:

  1. Fuel type, availability and cost. The fuel type or energy source you use for water heating will not only affect the water heater’s annual operation costs but also its size and energy efficiency. …
  2. Size. …
  3. Energy efficiency. …
  4. Costs.

What is the number 1 hot water heater?

Best Overall, Electric: Rheem Performance Plus 50 Gallon Electric Tank Water Heater. The Rheem Performance Plus series offers a combination of features and benefits that homeowners will appreciate in an electric water heater.

Can a water heater explode?

While rare, residential water heater explosions do occur and can be deadly. Explosions are possible with both gas and electric tank water heaters, primarily those that are poorly maintained.