Although you can’t predict water heater dilemmas, you have a lot more control over your water heater’s lifespan than you might think. With consistent preventive maintenance, you can help your water heater last longer.
This guide covers everything from average water heater lifespans and the most durable brands to a step-by-step maintenance schedule. Following these tips will help you get the most out of your current unit and avoid costly emergencies down the road.
What is the Average Life Expectancy of a Water Heater?
The lifespan of a water heater depends on a few factors:
- Type of Unit: Different models last longer than others. On average, a unit’s lifespan will fall into these ranges:
- Traditional Tank Water Heaters: 8–12 years
- Tankless Water Heaters: 8–15 years
- Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heaters: 10–15 years
- Installation Quality: Poor installation can cause immediate and long-term problems. It is always better to go with professional installation.
- Water Quality: Hard water, which is common in the Tri-Valley area, leads to increased corrosion and sediment buildup. This makes your water heater work harder, significantly decreasing the life expectancy of your unit.
- Maintenance: Regular care is the single most important factor in determining how long your water heater will last.
- Usage: A large family will put more strain on a unit than a single person.
Which Type of Water Heater Lasts the Longest?
When it comes to durability, heat pump water heaters often have a slight edge. These hybrid units are highly energy-efficient because they pull warmth from the surrounding air to heat the water. This process places less stress on the system’s heating components, leading to less wear and tear over time.
However, regardless of the type, no water heater can reach its full potential without proper care. Regular maintenance is always the best way to help your water heater last longer.
Which Water Heater Brands Last the Longest?
At Barnett, some of the top brands we recommend are:
- American Standard
- Bradford White
- Rheem
That said, a well-maintained budget water heater could outlast a neglected premium unit. Maintenance truly is the most important factor.
How to Extend The Life of Your Water Heater
The secret to making your water heater last longer is pretty simple: Create a consistent maintenance routine and stick with it. With regular maintenance, you can catch small issues before they become major failures. Here’s how often we recommend you check in on your water heater:
Every 3–6 Months: A Visual Check Up
Take a few minutes every 3–6 months to perform a quick water heater check. This checklist will guide you through exactly what to look for. You want to watch for signs of leaks, corrosion, or water pooling around the unit. It’s also a good idea to think about how well your water heater has been working. If you’ve noticed any sudden changes, or see anything suspicious, give us a call at (925) 294-0171.
Annually: A Professional Flush
Sediment buildup is a water heater’s worst enemy. Mineral deposits from hard water collect at the bottom of the tank, causing erosion and keeping your unit from working efficiently. An annual flush is the best way to clear out this sediment and keep your unit “healthy.” It’s kind of like your annual visit to the dentist. We get out all of your water heater’s “plaque” (sediment) so it doesn’t get any “cavities” (corroded areas).
We recommend hiring a professional for your yearly water heater tune-up. However, if you’ve got the time and a few good YouTube videos, this is something you could figure out how to do on your own.
A step-by-step guide to how to flush your water heater’s tank:
- Turn off the power (electric) or gas supply.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve.
- Place the other end of the hose next to a floor drain or outdoors so that all the water in the unit can flow out without damaging your property.
- Open your water heater’s drain valve and let all the water drain out.
- Once the tank is empty, flush with fresh water until the water runs clear.
- When finished, close your water heater’s drain valve and remove the drain hose.
- Open the hot water faucets throughout your home and turn on the cold water inlet to fill the tank.
- Once water begins to flow from your faucets, you know the tank is full.
- Turn off all of your faucets.
- Turn your water heater back on.
That’s it! You’ve successfully flushed your water heater. Although it is a relatively simple process, it can be time consuming and messy. The benefit of hiring a professional is that you know it will get done right and you won’t have to clean up any of the mess.
During your annual inspection, a professional will also check:
- The temperature and pressure relief valve
- Gas connections (for gas units)
- Electrical connections (for electric units)
- For signs of corrosion or leaks
- Overall system performance
- The anode rod
A professional plumber’s added expertise and insight will give you the reassurance that every aspect of your water heater is in good shape.
Every 3–5 Years: Anode Rod Replacement
Another benefit of having a professional yearly inspection is to keep an eye on your sacrificial anode rod. The anode rod is a “sacrificial” part designed to protect your tank from rust. Made of aluminum, magnesium, or zinc, it attracts corrosive elements in the water, essentially sacrificing itself to save the tank.
The best way to know if your anode rod needs a replacement is to have a professional look for signs of erosion. Other warning signs are:
- A “rotten egg” smell coming from your hot water.
- Rusty or discolored hot water.
Having a professional replace your anode rod is a straightforward fix that can make a big difference in your water heater’s longevity.
Additional Tips to Make Your Water Heater Last Longer
Beyond the core maintenance schedule, these simple adjustments can help you get even more life from your unit.
- Temperature Optimization: Set your water heater to 120°F. Higher settings waste energy, increase the risk of scalding, and accelerate mineral buildup and corrosion.
- Add Insulation: If you have an older water heater, an inexpensive insulation blanket can reduce heat loss, saving energy and reducing your water heater’s workload.
- Address Problems Early: Don’t ignore warning signs. Pay attention to common issues like strange rumbling or popping noises, discolored water, low hot water supply, or any moisture around the unit.
- Install a Water Softener: If you live in an area with hard water (and the Tri Valley area is on par with some of California’s hardest water regions), a water softener is one of the best investments you can make. It removes minerals from the water before they enter your water heater. Not only will this help your unit last longer but it will also benefit your skin, hair, and all other water-using appliances.
The Cost of Neglect vs. Maintenance
Preventive maintenance might feel like just another expense, but it’s a smart investment. Spending a little bit on yearly maintenance can help you avoid a disaster or a premature replacement. Taking these simple steps to extend the life of your water heater will save time and money in the long run.
Keep the Hot Water Flowing in Your Home
Water heater maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the best investments you can make in your home. Regular care helps your water heater last longer, run more efficiently, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
While some tasks are simple, calling a professional ensures the job is done right the first time. A trained technician will save you time, stress, and spot developing problems you might miss.
Ready to add years to your water heater’s life? Barnett Plumbing offers no-pressure, free, in-home estimates for all your plumbing needs. Schedule your water heater maintenance today by calling (925) 294-0171.
