We all know how important a water heater is to the running of the home, this is why we like to give it a lot of attention during our home inspections. A water heater, like any appliance, will not last forever and at some point will have to be replaced, but how can you determine how long of a lifespan your home’s water heater will have?
A water heater will usually last about 10 years, however, there are many factors that can change this time frame, here are a few of them:
Usage. The amount of use a water heater gets will naturally play a role when it comes to its lifespan. The more water it needs to heat, the harder it will work which means it will experience more wear and tear.
Installation. The way a water heater is installed can also have a major impact on its lifespan. Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to install it themselves, but this is a lot harder than it looks, particularly with tankless gas heaters.
Location. A lot of thought should go into where the water heater will be installed. It should be placed in an upright position and the area should be well ventilated. You will also want to avoid placing it in an area prone to flooding as this will make it much more vulnerable to rust and damage. You will also need to keep in mind future maintenance and repairs when choosing where to install a water heater and select a space that has easy access.
Another thing to think about, especially if you are shopping for a new water heater, is that, generally, the more you pay the better the quality and the longer the lifespan will be. You should also look for one with a long warranty as this is another indication that the water heater will last longer.
