Hot water is one of modern life’s most important inventions. You probably turn on the hot tap a dozen times a day, but how often do you really think about where it’s coming from? Most of us hardly notice our hot water systems until something goes wrong. As anyone who’s experienced a failed water heater can attest, few things are less pleasant than cold water to the face when you go to take a shower on a brisk July morning.
All hot water systems will need to be replaced as they reach the end of their service life, but timely repairs and regular maintenance can help to maximise that service life. Luckily, water heaters are simple appliances, and they can last for decades without developing serious issues. In this article, we’ll answer the question “How many years does a water heater last?” and look at some of the ways you can prolong the life of your system.
How many years does a hot water heater last?
Most hot water systems last between 7 to 15 years. From the time of installation, the typical lifespan of hot water heaters is around 10 years across the board. The lifespan of a hot water system depends on the type of heater, how it’s used, the quality of water in your area and whether the system receives maintenance.
The various types of hot water heaters have different lifespans:
- Electric hot water heaters last 10 to 15 years
- Gas hot water heaters last 8 to 12 years
- Instant water heaters last 10 to 20 years
- Solar hot water heaters last 20 to 30 years
- Heat pump hot water heaters last 15+ years
The lifespan of a hot water system largely depends on the heating technology that’s used. Electric hot water heaters are reliable because they’re incredibly simple. On the other hand, gas water heaters are subject to other stresses and often have shorter lifespans. When choosing a hot water system make sure you take its life expectancy into account. Saving a little bit of money on a cheaper system may end up costing you more if it has to be replaced sooner!
After the 10-year mark is reached, water heaters tend to lose effectiveness and efficiency, and they can become prone to failure. If a water heater is presenting problems and it is nearly 10 years old or older, it’s typically best to replace it.
Why is replacement recommended at 10 years?
While hot water systems can certainly outlive their expected lifespan, repair costs quickly become more expensive in the long run than a full replacement. Once the 10-year mark is reached, many elements of the hot water system must be replaced. Parts and labour for these replacements begin to add up quickly, and replacing broken elements of an old water heater may only add a year or two to the system’s service life while costing only slightly less than a full replacement.
Signs your hot water system is failing
Hot water systems are long-lived appliances, but they do fail eventually. In most cases, a hot water heater will gradually develop problems that can be fixed with minor repairs. In between services, you should keep an eye out for the symptoms of a failing hot water system:
- The water comes out at inconsistent temperatures
- The hot water tap only produces cold water
- Strange smells or loud noises coming from the hot water system
- Murky, brown or rust-coloured hot water
- Hot water leaks are occurring around the tank or pipes
- Signs of corrosion or rust on the system
- In the case of gas hot water heaters, yellow pilot lights
Repairs and maintenance on your hot water system can help it last longer
When not properly maintained, hot water systems can fail prematurely. The best way to avoid this is through regular servicing and repairs. The recommended rule of thumb is to service your water heating system every 5 years. This will keep the system performing at its best and prevent common issues.
During a water heater service, your plumber will replace critical elements of your water heating system. This includes elements such as tempering valves and sacrificial anodes, which protect the critical parts of your water heater from impurities that eat away at the materials.
Putting off needed hot water system repairs or your regular 5-year service is not a wise decision. While it may seem like a way to save money, you’ll likely wind up paying more in the long run.
Though it may not seem like it, water erodes just about every material it comes into contact with due to minerals and impurities, along with its own chemical composition. In fact, water heating systems are designed to account for this, with hot water anodes that are slowly eaten away over time as they protect your tank from impurities. As mentioned above, these anodes are replaced as part of your regular 5-year service – but if you don’t complete the service, the anodes will be eaten away completely, and the tank will be subject to this erosion instead.
Typically, when water heaters fail, and cracks form in the tank – one of the most common issues with water heaters – it’s because of a failure to complete needed maintenance and repairs. When a tank cracks, it leaves you with an emergency need to replace the water heating system and deal with potential flooding in your home.
How to extend the life of your hot water system
You can expect to get 10+ years of life from most hot water systems, as long as they’re serviced regularly. Like any other appliance, neglecting your water heater can lead to problems, and you might find yourself replacing it prematurely. You can extend the life of a hot water system with these three simple steps:
- Test the TPR valve. The Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve is designed to prevent buildups of pressure in the tank. TPR valves become blocked by sediment and mineral deposits. Check the TPR valve regularly by turning the system off and then opening and closing the valve a few times. A little bit of water should run out – just be mindful that it could be hot. If no water comes out then it’s time to book a service.
- Check the anode rod. Most hot water systems use metallic heating elements to warm the water. Sacrificial anode rods are used to protect these metal parts from corrosion. Anode rods need to be checked and replaced on a regular basis to prevent the system from being ruined by rust.
- Flush the tank. Water contains small particles of dirt and minerals. These build up over time, creating a layer of sediment that forces your water heater to work harder. It’s a good idea to have your hot water tank flushed and inspected once per year by an experienced plumber.
Call S&J for Hot Water System Repairs and Maintenance!
At S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, we provide hot water system maintenance, repairs, and water heater replacements for homeowners throughout Brisbane. Whether you’re experiencing problems with your hot water system or if you’re overdue for your 5-year service, S&J is the plumbing expert to call. With more than 20 years in the industry, we’re the go-to experts for Brisbane homeowners in need of hot water system repairs or replacements. Contact us to schedule your service today!