How long is a water heater supposed to last?
Your water heater is an essential part of your home, heating water for showers, dishwashing, laundry and more. On average, a traditional water heater will last 8-12 years. The general consensus is that it’s better to replace your water heater with a new one than to repair one that’s 10 years old or more. Older models are less energy-efficient and thus more costly to run than newer models with better technology. Here are some indicators of when it may be time to replace an old water heater instead of repairing it:
- Leaks: If leaking is not caused by loose connections, the water may be seeping out through slight fractures in the metal of the tank that have formed over time.
- Strange noises: Clanking, rumbling and other noises can mean that sediment has formed on the base of your tank, contributing to fissures leaks, and inefficiency.
- Age: If it’s more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to replace.
- Discolored or rusty water: Have a pro check it out; if the problem isn’t resolved by draining and cleaning, you’ll want to replace the heater.
- Lack of hot water: Inconsistent heating and hot water supply that runs out too quickly likely means it’s time for a new unit.
When is it time to replace a water heater?
Although regular water heater maintenance and water heater repair may extend the life of your hot water heater, it won’t last forever. Most water heaters have a life expectancy of about 10 years. Many water heaters need to be replaced when they’re 8-12 years old — that’s when they start to show signs of fatal wear, such as leaking around the base of the tank. A water heater should be replaced when it fails to sufficiently heat water for the home; if your heater is operating erratically, check first for a blown fuse or a tripped breaker to make sure an electrical issue isn’t causing the problem. Another time to replace a water heater is when you want to upgrade to either a larger model or a more energy-efficient one.
Why is my hot water not working?
The most common complaint among homeowners is that their hot water isn’t working — and the water heater is generally the culprit. Typically, it isn’t making the water as hot as you’d like it to be. When the water isn’t hot enough — or isn’t hot at all — run through this troubleshooting checklist for basic water heater repair tasks:
- Make sure the power is connected to the heater, then reset the thermostat.
- If it’s a gas water heater, make sure the pilot light is lit.
- Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat.
If these stops don’t lead to hot water, it’s time to either check the heating element in an electric water heater or the burner unit and gas control valve in a gas-powered heater. A water heater repair and maintenance company can handle these repair jobs. However, if your hot water heater is eight years or older, it may be time to replace the water heater instead of repairing it.
Who can fix a water heater?
When a water heater stops running effectively, it’s best to hire a water heater repair professional to troubleshoot the problem. Whether it’s a plumbing company that offers water heater repair services or a provider specializing in water heater repair and maintenance, most repair companies offer same-day service as well as weekend and after-hours emergency calls. Usually, water heater repair professionals are experts in both electric and gas systems, as well as tank and tankless heaters, and can repair any kind of unit.
Why is the water in my house not getting hot?
If the water in your house is not getting hot, it may be time for water heater repair. Nationally, the average water heater repair cost ranges between $120 and $200, although prices can range up to $400, depending on the problem and materials. Competent homeowners may also be able to try DIY fixes, whether they have a traditional gas or electric water heater or a tankless gas or electric heater. Troubleshooting the different issues that can arise with each of the styles requires some knowledge of how they operate and what red flags to look out for. For a natural gas water heater, the first step is to check whether the pilot light has gone out. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions if you want to relight it yourself. If you smell gas, stop everything and call your gas company — the smell could signal a dangerous gas leak. If your household’s water is not getting hot enough, you can try increasing the temperature on the water heater’s front dial above the standard setting of 120 degrees; for safety, always turn off electricity to the unit before adjusting temperatures. If you keep running out of hot water, your household may simply need a higher-capacity water heater, so consider upgrading. Quick professional fixes include replacing the thermostat or heating elements and cleaning and repairing the thermocouple.