When a home’s water heater stops working for any reason, it can interfere with the proper functioning of the household. This is why we give them extra attention during our home inspections. One thing many homeowners want to know is how long they can expect their water heater to last. A very quick answer would be approximately 10 years but, this will depend on numerous factors. Here are some of them.
The amount of use the water heater gets will play a large role in estimating its lifespan. Logically, the more use it gets, the harder it has to work to heat the water, which will increase the level of wear and tear placed on it.
Correct installation of the water heater is also an important step for expanding its life. Homeowners often attempt the installation themselves so that they can save money, only to find out that the job is a lot harder than it looks, especially if it is a tankless gas heater.
Attention should also be given to the area you place the water heater. Make sure it is upright and in a well-ventilated place. Do not install a water heater in an area that is prone to flooding. This can rust the heater’s exterior pipes which will affect its lifespan. Another factor to consider when it comes to choosing an area for installation is future maintenance and inspections, you will want the heater to be easy to access.
If you decide you need to purchase a new water heater, how can you ensure you buy a good one? Doing some research is always a good idea but, as with most things, you get what you pay for. A good quality water heater will cost you more. You should also look at the warranty to see how long it is for. A longer warranty will mean a better-quality water heater.
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