Water Heaters: How Long Will They Last?

Court Lundberg • January 19, 2023
A person's hands using a red adjustable wrench to tighten a chrome-colored pipe in a bathroom setting.

On average, a well-maintained water heater connected to high-quality water lasts between six and 15 years. Tanked systems don’t last as long as tankless units, even when they receive equal routine care. The lifespan of electric-powered units is longer than gas units by about two years. Other factors affecting durability are the quality of the installation and the frequency of use. Make your water heaters last longer by observing the following care tips.


Maintain the System Well


The first tip to get the most out of your water heater is to keep each component in top-notch work condition. Get professional annual cleaning services to remove hard water buildups such as rust and sediments from your heater tanks.


Replace Anode Rods


Another simple way to prolong your heater’s life is by replacing its anode rod. Replacing the anode rod when its surface is entirely corroded can significantly extend the life of the unit.


Flush the Tank


Finally, you can add more useful life to the water heater by flushing the tank once a year or more if you have very hard water. Problems can arise during this procedure, so it’s best to call a plumber who can perform other routine maintenance tasks while they’re there. If the tank isn’t flushed, sediments that settle at the bottom of the tank may cause corrosion, plug the unit’s drain valve, and shorten the unit’s life.


Rare Breed Plumbing is your go-to Midvale plumbing company when you need to extend the life of your water heater. We offer annual maintenance, regular repairs, and emergency services to keep your system working optimally. Other services include repairing and maintaining water softeners, plumbing fixtures and systems, and garbage disposals. Our team is dedicated to providing a quick response to all service calls. Contact Rare Breed Plumbing to schedule an appointment and get a free price quote.

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