Whether you need to wash dishes, shower, or do your laundry, there’s no doubt that hot water is essential for any home. Houston water heater installation can provide you with a reliable supply of hot water, so you can perform your daily chores.
If you need to install a water heater in your home, you may be wondering how long it will last before it needs to be replaced again. In this blog, we will discuss the average lifespan of a water heater and the many ways you can maximize its usefulness.
Before you make any big decisions, remember to contact your Houston plumber at Santhoff Plumbing.
The Lifespan of a Houston Water Heater
The lifespan of your Houston water heater will depend on a variety of different factors, including the fuel source and type. The two most common fuel sources are electricity and gas, and the two common types of water heater systems are tank and tankless.
- Electric Water Heater: Electric water heaters are very popular among homeowners due to their lower upfront costs and ease of installation. These typically last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
- Gas Water Heater: Gas water heaters are known for their fast heating abilities, but they are less popular now due to the popularity of electric options. They usually have shorter lifespans than electric water heaters, about 8 to 12 years.
- Tank Water Heater: These heaters heat water and store it in a tank until it’s needed. When you turn on the tap, the pre-heated water in the tank is released, and cold water enters to fill the tank and is heated by the heating element or burner. They are the most common type of water heater in the United States, and last between 8 and 12 years.
- Tankless Water Heater: Tankless water heaters have been growing in popularity due to their energy efficiency. They heat water on demand as it flows through the unit instead of storing it. One of the greatest benefits of tankless water heaters is their longer lifespans, typically lasting up to 20 years.
It’s important to note that these are averages, and tank lifespans can vary significantly. However, if you are looking for Houston water heater installation, these are all critical factors to consider when making your decision.
Factors Influencing Water Heater Lifespan in Houston
There are other factors that may influence the lifespan of your water heater. Let’s take a look at them:
Water Quality
Like the rest of the United States, Houston is known to have hard water. While hard water isn’t harmful to your health, it can be harmful to your plumbing. As water heats, the molecules move faster and faster until they turn into a gas. While the gas escapes, the minerals remain inside the water heater. This will cause mineral deposits to accumulate, which can cause misreading of temperature and deterioration of the heating element. If you have hard water where you live, know that this may be a factor that will impact your water heater.
Frequency of Usage
Frequent usage of hot water can put strain on the water heater, forcing it to heat more frequently and for longer periods. This can cause overheating, increased wear and tear on components, and shorten your water heater’s lifespan. This will be a bigger issue for water heaters in commercial settings or homes with a large number of inhabitants.
Maintenance Habits
Just like any other appliance in your home, your water heater needs regular maintenance to ensure proper function. An important part of water heater maintenance is tank flushing, where sediment, mineral buildup, and debris are flushed out of the tank to improve efficiency. The sacrificial anode rod also needs to be inspected and replaced every 3 to 5 years. This rod’s main function is to draw corrosive elements away from the tank to prevent it from corroding.
Original Quality and Installation
The quality of your water heater, including the brand and model, also plays a role in its longevity. This is a great time to contact a professional Houston plumber for recommendations and help with installation. Improper installation can lead to larger plumbing issues down the road, so don’t cut any corners!
Type of Water Heater
As stated above, the type of water heater will impact how long it lasts. Tankless water heaters last a lot longer than traditional tanks, but they also have unique maintenance requirements that may need special attention. You should consult a plumber about Houston water heater installation before choosing the type that’s right for you.
Knowing When to Replace
No matter how long your water heater lasts, a time will come when you need to replace it. Here are some signs that your water heater may be nearing the end of its life.
- Age: Every water heater has a manufacturer’s label located on the side. This will tell you the date the appliance was manufactured. If your appliance is over 10 years old, it may be better to replace it instead of repairing it. Even without other issues, an older unit will be more prone to malfunctions.
- Inconsistent Water Pressure: A common sign of a failing water heater is inconsistent water temperature. A constant fluctuation of hot and cold water could mean a broken thermostat, a malfunctioning heating element, or sediment buildup in the tank.
- Rusty or Discolored Water: Remember the sacrificial anode rod we discussed earlier? If this part fails, the tank will begin to rust, and you will most likely get discolored water.
- Unusual Noises: Rumbling, popping, hissing — these can be indications of sediment buildup, overheating, and leaks. Even worse, ignoring these noises can lead to even worse problems. Call your Houston plumber!
- Leaks Around the Base of the Tank: A leak at the base of the tank may indicate an issue with the tank itself, including a crack, corrosion, or a faulty drain valve. Make sure to shut off the water supply before inspecting the issue.
- Increased Energy Bill: An aging water heater has to work harder to heat the water, leading to more energy consumption and higher bills.
Extending the Life of Your Houston Water Heater
How can you get the most out of your Houston water installation to save time and money? There are a few different ways! The best way to keep your hot water heater in top shape is with annual inspections by a Houston plumber. Our team at Santhoff Plumbing can check for safety issues, make sure all components are functioning properly, and identify any leaks or damage.
Other than inspections, there is some regular maintenance your Houston plumbers will perform. They will drain the tank and run water through it to clear out the accumulated debris and remove any sediment from the tank. They will also inspect and replace your sacrificial anode rod.
If you have particularly hard water in your area, your Houston plumber may recommend a water softener. Water softeners remove minerals like magnesium and calcium from the water to prevent mineral buildup. This has added benefits like softer hair and skin, and better energy efficiency.
Before you commit to Houston water heater installation, it’s important to understand water heater life span and maintenance. The fuel source, type of heater, and maintenance requirements will all have an impact on the longevity of your appliance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, no need to worry. Our Houston plumbers are here to help. Contact us for all of your Houston water heater needs.