Water Heater Lifespan
A well-maintained standard tank water heater should last 6-12 years. Tankless water heaters last about 20 years.
No matter what kind of water heater you have, when it reaches a certain age, you ought to consider replacing it. The older water heaters get, the more problems you tend to have. Instead of repeatedly repairing them, look into replacing them. Often, you’ll find you’ll save money by getting a new one.
When it comes to expert water heater replacement in Colorado Springs, CO, look to the licensed professionals at The Happy Plumber Company. We’ll make sure you get the right water heater for your household. Set up a service call with us today by dialing (719) 426-6030.
What are signs your water heater is going out?
Regular maintenance will keep your water heater performing well for a long time. However, it might be time for a water heater replacement if you start experiencing these 10 common signs that your water heater is going out:
- Strange noises: It’s not normal for water heaters to pop, bang, or rumble. If you’re hearing these noises, the problem is usually sediment build-up. The more sediment that builds up at the bottom of the tank, the more likely your water heater will overheat and eventually fail.
- Varying or decreased water temperature: Inconsistent or decreased water temperature signifies the water heater could fail. Have a professional check it out.
- Low water pressure: This often means sediment build-up. As sediment builds up on the bottom of the tank, the water heater can overheat.
- Rusty or discolored water: Discolored water usually means the anode rod is corroding and failing. This will lead to rust and corrosion inside the tank.
- Hot water shortage: Water heaters that are failing tend to produce hot water less often.
- Leaks: Because water heater tanks are supposed to be airtight, a leak is a serious problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
- Frequent repairs: Typically, the more often you have to repair the water heater, the more often it will break down and need more repairs. You’ll save money replacing the water heater.
- Water heater’s age: The older your water heater gets, the less likely it will perform at a high level. If it’s more than 10-12 years old, look into replacing it.
- Higher energy bills: Sediment build-up will also reduce your water heater’s energy efficiency, so you’ll begin seeing higher energy bills.
- Odd-smelling water: Funky smells coming from your water usually mean that bacteria are growing in the water heater’s tank. Bacteria can be caused by a variety of reasons. Keeping the temperature below 120 degrees creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, as does rust and corrosion. Bacterial growths can be flushed but persistent problems with these growths mean you might want to replace the unit.
Should I replace my water heater before it goes bad?
When you replace your water heater really depends on how well it’s performing. If your water heater isn’t aging out, you’re not experiencing problems like those listed above and it’s consistently producing hot water, water heater replacement is unnecessary.
At the same time, you should stay prepared for any emergencies and have professionals regularly maintain the unit. Also, check your warranty for timelines.
Can a water heater last 20 years?
Average lifespans for water heaters are just that–averages. Some water heaters will last much longer than the 6-12-year average lifespan. Some could last 20 years or more, as long as they have been installed properly and are well-maintained.
That said, older water heaters do tend to break down frequently, and this can cause many problems, not the least of which is repair costs. Also, if that older water heater happens to suddenly burst and cause damage to your home, the damage might not be covered by homeowner’s insurance, especially if the older unit hasn’t been well-maintained. Regular maintenance is also essential to prevent your warranty from being voided.
What unit should I buy, gas or electric?
When it comes to water heater replacement, you basically have two choices, either gas or electric. Electric water heaters tend to be more efficient and require less maintenance. Gas heaters will require a vent or chimney, and are harder to install unless the gas fixtures are already in place. Much of what you get will depend on what you already have in place, as well as personal preference.
On the other hand, because gas water heaters use pilot lights to heat up, they don’t need an electrical source to heat up, so your gas water heater will work even when there is a power outage.
Who is best when it comes to installing a water heater?
While many people think they’ll save money by installing a water heater themselves, it’s usually best to let a professional licensed plumber do the job. Water heater installation isn’t as easy as it might seem. Along with understanding all the required codes to complete a safe and compliant installation, licensed plumbers will know best what size of water heater you need.
Even if you do install the water heater yourself, it will need to be up to code, and it will need to be inspected for code compliance once installed.
Professional plumbers will also usually haul away the old unit.
Professional installation also only takes about two to three hours.
One thing to be aware of: It will take some time for the water in your new water heater to heat up. Be patient at first because the water will take anywhere from 60-80 minutes to heat up when you have an electric unit and about 30-40 minutes for a gas unit. A tankless water heater, however, should heat up almost immediately.
Water Heater Replacement Near Me
If you need a new water heater, whether standard tank or tankless, you can always count on the licensed and experienced professionals at The Happy Plumber Company for expert water heater replacement in Colorado Springs, CO. Schedule replacement and installation services today by calling (719) 426-6030.
