Water Heater Lifespan | Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing

Your water heater should be durable enough to last many years. However, even high-quality water heaters break down eventually. But how long does a hot water heater last, and how can you maximize its lifespan? Let’s take a look.

How Long Should a Water Heater Last?

How long does a gas water heater last? According to Keep Warm Illinois, the average hot water tank lasts around 12 years. While this is impressive, it does mean you’ll probably need to replace your water heater every decade or so.

Why do water heaters fail? It’s typically due to rust and corrosion. Even if you replace the components regularly, the tank will eventually rust through.

How Long Does a Tankless Water Heater Last?

A tankless water heater can last slightly longer – anywhere from 10 to 20 years. With good maintenance, you can extend this as long as possible. We’ll cover maintenance tips below.

Signs of a Failing Water Heater

How do you know if your heater needs replacing? Look out for these tell-tale signs of a failing water heater or component parts.

Low water pressure
Discolored water
Insufficient hot water
Frequent strange noises e.g. hissing, banging
Leaks around the tank

The good news is that these signs don’t always mean the whole heater needs replacing! Often, we can replace or repair a component without changing the whole tank.

The sooner you identify water heater failure, the easier it is to fix the problem. So, if you spot any of these signs, contact Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing for water heater repair.

Tips to Prolong Your Water Heater’s Lifespan

Although your tank will need replacing eventually, there are various ways you can extend its lifespan. Here’s how to improve your tank’s life expectancy.

Flush and drain the tank at least once a year. This removes sediment buildup and helps to protect the components.
Replace your anode rod every few years. This rod helps to prevent corrosion within the tank.
Inspect the tank regularly. If you have any concerns, schedule a visit from our plumbing team.
Consider an expansion tank. Expansion tanks help to ease some of the pressure on the main tank. This could prolong the life of your water heater.
Buy water softener. Using a water softener can help reduce mineral deposit buildup within the tank.

It’s crucial that you perform routine maintenance on your water heater. And if you spot any signs of leaking or corrosion, call our team so we can remedy the problem before they become urgent.

Remember, malfunctioning water heaters can lead to property damage and flooding – and expensive emergency repairs!

Replace or Repair Your Water Heater in Elgin, IL

Do you need a water heater repair or replacement? Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing can assist. Our experienced plumbers can service, repair, or replace your water heater with minimal fuss. And we’ll work around your schedule – after all, we’re here to help!