Like any other major appliance, your home’s water heater will eventually need to be replaced. When this important component begins to fail, your household will no longer have a steady supply of hot water. How long will your water heater actually last? The answer to this question depends on several key factors.
Type of Water Heater
With proper maintenance, a traditional tank-style water heater can give you up to 15 years of service. Keep in mind that the build quality of a water heater can vary from one unit to the next. This is why Benjamin Franklin Plumbing recommends consulting a licensed plumber before purchasing a new water heater.
Another option is a tankless unit. Because a tankless water heater has fewer components that can fail, it boasts a longer expected lifespan. Most tankless systems are rated to last for at least 20 years. However, some may even reach the 30-year mark.
Maintenance
To no surprise, well-maintained water heaters have a better chance of withstanding the test of time. Traditional water heaters are designed with a part called an anode rod, which should be replaced roughly every three to five years. The sole purpose of an anode rod is to inhibit tank corrosion by absorbing minerals and sediment. If you don’t replace the anode rod in time, there’s a good chance the tank will gradually start to rust away from the inside out.
Virtually all water heaters need to be drained and flushed at least once a year. This important service helps further decrease mineral buildup. Key components, such as the heating element, will last much longer in the long run.
It’s also critical to have your unit’s pressure relief valve periodically inspected. A stuck pressure relief valve could eventually cause the tank to explode.
Water Quality
As you may know, Daytona suffers from hard water. While hard water isn’t necessarily a detriment to your health, it can cause your home’s plumbing system to experience accelerated wear and tear. The excessive mineral content in the water can certainly cause water heaters to degrade. If your unit begins to produce a popping sound or fails to properly heat, stubborn limescale deposits could be to blame.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has found that installing a water treatment system is among the best ways to counter hard water. This upgrade can dramatically improve overall water quality.
Installation
Never sacrifice professional installation just to save a few dollars. When it comes time to have your water heater replaced, always hire a licensed plumber to handle the task.
Amateurs are more prone to making costly errors, thus forcing you to spend more money on repairs over time. Leaks, inadequate heating, and poor water pressure are just a few of the potential issues that you may encounter. If you fail to have the job done by a certified professional, the unit’s manufacturer could also void your warranty when repair is needed.