How often do you replace a hot water heater

Wondering whether you should replace your water heater? Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to get a new one.

Your Water Heater is Getting Old

If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s probably reaching the end of its lifespan. Most conventional electric hot water tanks will last 10-15 years maximum. Gas-powered hot water tanks usually breakdown after 8-10 years, while tankless water heaters can last over 15 years with regular maintenance.

If you don’t know how old your water heater is, you can often figure it out when it was manufactured by looking at the serial number. Most brands have a warranty search page on their website, or a toll-free warranty phone line where you can enter your serial number to find out when your tank was manufactured, and what the warranty coverage is. For older tanks, the serial number may begin with a letter from A to L. Each letter represents a month (A=January, B=February, C=March, and so on) and the 2 digits that follow the letter represent a year (10=the year 2010, 11=the year 2011, etc.). Say, for example, your tank’s serial number begins with “E08,” then it was probably manufactured in May of 2008.

Leaks

You should never ignore any leaks when it comes to plumbing, but this is especially important when it comes to hot water tanks. Slow, seemingly minor leaks can easily escalate quickly and could result in a break in the tank, causing a flood. Call a plumber immediately if you notice any dripping or puddles forming underneath your water heater.

Signs of Rust

If hot water comes out discoloured or smelling/tasting metallic, this is a sign of a tank that is rusting from the inside and the rust is flaking off into the water. If there are no signs of rust on the outside and the tank is relatively young, rusty water may just point to a rusted anode rod, which may need to be replaced.

If, however, there is rust visible on the outside of your hot water tank, this is a sure-fire indication that it’s almost time to get a new water heater. Once your water heater begins to rust, it means that it is beginning to break down and is likely to begin leaking soon.

No (or Less) Hot Water

Well, clearly something is wrong with your water heater if it’s failing to heat your water. This usually means that minerals and sediment from the water has built up over time and formed a deposit which acts as a barrier between the burner or element and the water, so the water isn’t heated as effectively.

Increased Bill

If your water heating bill goes up noticeably without an increase in usage, this is a sign that your hot water tank is getting older and becoming less energy efficient. When this begins to happen, it may be more cost effective for you to replace your water heater.

Water Heater Makes Noise

Popping, knocking, or cracking sounds are common indicators that it’s time to replace your water heater. These types of sounds happen when there is a significant sediment buildup that has created a barrier trapping water underneath it. The trapped water heats up, steams, and bubbles, which is what makes noise. When a sediment layer is thick enough that it’s causing noises, it is probably also causing overheating and deterioration of the tank.

When You Just Need to Repair

The following issues are usually worth it to have repaired instead of replacing your whole water heater, unless it is old or has been having a lot of problems. Generally, if your water heater is 6 years old or less, it makes sense to have these problems repaired.

  • Failed gas valve
  • Rusted anode rod
  • Pilot light outages
  • Broken thermostat

Maintenance to Lengthen Your Water Heater’s Life Expectancy

Proper maintenance can make a big difference in how long your water heater lasts. Have your hot water tank flushed out annually. This gets rid of built-up sediment, preventing malfunction and increasing energy efficiency (which translates to lower bills).

Additionally, have someone inspect the anode rod (also sometimes called the “sacrificial rod”) every 3 years or so. This is a rod made of either magnesium or aluminum located inside the tank. It works like a magnet to collect corrosive material in order to prevent corrosion of the rest of the tank.

At John Sadler, our team of experienced plumber/gas fitters can help you choose the right water heater for your home, install any model you choose, and perform all water heater maintenance and repairs.

Call Now: 604-260-0748

When your installed water heater starts to have water heater issues, it can not be very pleasant. That is why it is essential to know when you should repair your instant water heater or replace it with a new storage water heater.

In this article, we have listed down some tips that will help you decide why you should replace your water heater with a newer one like the Ariston water heater, Joven water heater, or such.

Signs of Water Heater Damage

Here are some signs that your water heater might be damaged.

Decreased Hot Water Supply

Your existing water heater should be able to provide you with adequate hot water regardless of the water heater brand. If you noticed that your installed water heater lacks in providing enough water for your bath, that is the time you should consider engaging in a professional plumber because your water heater is faulty.

Old Age of Water Heater

If you have an installed instant water heater or storage water heater that has been used for a very long time it is best to consider having them replaced. Old water heater models tend to have more water issues as well as be less efficient or less durable that could lead to water heater leakage. 

Deteriorating Water Heater Tank

Often used water heaters can have corroded parts inside the water heater system due to poor water heater maintenance, which can lead to serious damage and hinders your water heater safety.

Rusty-looking Water

Like most bathroom installations, they become rusty looking due to long durations of use. They can be tarnished, resulting in affecting the water supply for your installed water heater. One sign of this is when it starts to produce an orange-brown color due to the tank’s iron structure corroding. It would be best if you replaced your water heater with a newer one and an energy efficient water heater

Water Leaks

Leakages in your water heater can occur even without visible signs of water heater failure. A water heater leak can be resolved right away especially if the unit has only been recently installed. However, if you have an old water heater that has leakages, you should consider replacing them right away.

How Long Should A Water Heater Last?

How often do you replace a hot water heater

Your installed water heater should last within eight to twelve years, and that is what most commercial and hdb plumbers say. However, there are some factors that decrease the water heater’s life expectancy. It can be the design, the water heater installation process, and maintenance schedule. If your water heater is working for years, there is a higher chance that you will also encounter water heater problems. It is best to replace your water to avoid such issues.

It is possible to extend the life of your installed instant water heater or storage water heater as long as you undergo regular water heater maintenance. The process usually starts with  draining the water heater every six months  to discard any accumulated sediments which might lead to corrosion. Lastly, remember to turn the pressure-relief valve frequently to drain all excess water into the overflow drain pipe.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Water Heater Replacement

How often do you replace a hot water heater

Remember these factors when replacing your current water heater to a newer one. 

Water Heater Type

In the market, there are many available types of water heaters. These include instant water heater, water heater, multipoint water heater, and more. The brands also vary from Ariston water heater, Rubine water heater, Joven water heater which has different features that you can enjoy. Different water brands have different features that vary from each other these factors will affect your preference.

The best selling water heater today have a simpler need for maintenance compared to older versions. However, it is important to take note that you should still undergo water heater servicing to prolong its life. 

Durability Level

How often do you replace a hot water heater

One of the factors that you should take note of when buying a water heater is to make sure that it is durable. This is because some water heater models easily corrode while others experience water leaks shortly after being installed.

Luckily, there are new instant or storage water heater models that are energy-efficient and are carefully made with fool-proof materials. One example is foam insulation which is injected in between the outer shell and tank for better heat retention.

Hidden Installation Costs

Many people are scared of installing a water heater due to the hidden costs, just like doing other home maintenance services. This is because there might be chances of unforeseen issues before the installation or issues with your storage water heater or instant water heater. To save your expenses, it is better to consult a reliable plumber so that all costs for your water heater replacement are appropriately detailed to avoid costing much. 

Conclusion

Take note of the following scenarios whether you will repair or replace your water heater. It is also better if you have an idea of the water heater brand or model like Bennington water heater or Champs water heater that you are planning to acquire. If not, it is advisable to get in touch with a reliable plumber and a trusted company that markets water heaters like Water heater city Singapore.

Water Heater City Singapore offers complete water heater services for both storage and instant water heater tanks including water heater installation and replacement, and water heater leak. We can provide the supply and installation or replacement of Singapore’s most popular water heater brands like Ariston water heater, Rheem water heater, Joven water heater, 707 water heater, Rubine water heater, and Champs water heater. If required, we are also able to open a false ceiling, patch it back up and paint it to restore it to its original condition. We have over 10 years of experience in the installation of water heaters and have done hundreds of water heater installation cases for landed, condos, and HDB, including complete one-stop installation above false ceilings, plastering and resealing false ceilings. We are a highly recommended Water Heater Services Company in Singapore, with many delighted customers and reviews over the years on Google and Facebook. WhatsApp us at +65 8241 0032 for transparent quotations and honest pricing for all your water heater needs. We also provide fast and efficient service to solve any of your water heater needs!

Can a hot water heater last 20 years?

Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more. Traditional water heaters with standing water tanks can last around 10 to 15 years before you notice signs of age.

How do you know when your water heater needs replacing?

5 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Water Heater.
The System Age..
Loss of Hot Water Volume..
Rising Heating Bills..
Corrosion..
Reddish Discoloration in the Water..
Too Many Repairs..

How often do hot water heaters have to be replaced?

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.

What is the life expectancy of a hot water heater?

While the typical water heater has a lifespan of about 10 years, careful consideration of the factors that pertain to its lifespan can provide the InterNACHI home inspector and the homeowner with information about the potential costs that would be incurred by replacing the water heater.