Hot water heaters are one of the most important components of a modern residential plumbing system. They’re responsible for delivering your family on-demand hot water for showers, dishes, and more. As crucial as these systems are, they are prone to wear and tear over time.

By replacing your hot water heater, you can ensure top performance from your system. Knowing when your system needs to be replaced can be confusing for a homeowner. In this blog, we’ll discuss how often a hot water heater should be replaced and the telltale signs that it’s time for it.

How Long Do Hot Water Heaters Last?

On average, a tank water heater will last 10-15 years. This number can vary widely based on how expensive the unit is and what conditions it goes through. Homes with harder water will create more wear and tear on the water heater, shortening its lifespan.

Tankless water heaters create on-demand, infinite hot water. They are much more effective and last longer, typically 20+ years. If you’re considering replacing your current unit, it’s probably worth upgrading to this type.

How Often Should Hot Water Heaters Be Replaced?

While you can wait for your water heater to fail, it’s best to replace it before a complete malfunction occurs. If you’re approaching the 10-20 year mark for your water heater, you’ll want to consider installing a new one.

There are some ways that you can extend the lifespan of your water heater, however. These include prefiltering water, changing the anode, and performing maintenance and an annual inspection.

Signs that Your Hot Water Heater is On Its Way Out

Luckily, it can be easy to predict when your hot water will need to be replaced because of a few tell-tale signs. Spotting these indicators can prepare you to service your system so that you’re not left without hot water for days on end while you wait for an HVAC or plumbing company to come out to your home. Look for the following:

  • Leaks: Leaks indicate that seals or plumbing within the hot water system are becoming worn. If you notice pooling water in your basement or where your hot water heater is located, it’s time to consider a replacement.
  • Reduced Hot Water: Are you running out of hot water in your home more frequently? Your unit could be starting to fail. Consider replacing it before it cuts out entirely.
  • Corrosion: Over time, hard water can corrode your hot water heater, leaving it compromised. Once this happens, it's an indicator that you need to replace your water heater before it bursts.

Need Assistance? Contact Our Professional HVAC Team Today!

Here at Around The Sun Heating & Cooling, Inc., we can provide you with an expert hot water heater replacement that lasts. Our team is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating and is a family-owned business. Contact our certified experts in Arizona today to learn more and to get a free quote.