Homeowners all over the U.S. can woefully attest to the fact that a home’s water heater is one of the most common appliances that will go up soon after move-in. It’s almost guaranteed that whether you just moved into a new home or have been in one for many years, your water heater will one day fail and leave you in a desperate situation.
Getting ahead of this and being proactive can save you the trouble of one day waking up for work and hopping in the shower to find that the water is ice cold, or that the spout will only put out a small trickle of water.
So what’s the average lifespan of a water heater? Typically, anywhere from 10-20 years. The average time of replacement is between 12-14 years.
If your water heater isn’t that old yet, there are a few things that can speed up the aging process and put your water heater at risk for premature failure.
Corrosion & Rust
Hot water tanks are commonly made of steel, meaning they’ll eventually begin to rust. You can sometimes notice this rust in hot water drawn from the tap. Rust and corrosion can’t be removed from your tank, and replacement is necessary once it has been found.
Hard Water
A common issue with water heaters is sediment buildup, more specifically calcium carbonate. This is primarily due to mineral deposits left behind by hard water when it is heated. Treating your water with softener is a helpful way to slow the buildup, but over time the sediment can:
- Lower the efficiency of your heater
- Cause failure of the recirculation pump
- Clog your drain valve
…and more. All of which contribute greatly to a shortened life for your water heater.
Failed Parts
Your hot water heater’s heating element, electric thermostat, drain valve, and ignitor are all parts necessary for proper functionality and can fail permanently without any warning or indication of an issue.
If you have an aging water heater, it might be time to consider replacement. Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating is your local Eldersburg, MD commercial plumber with a variety of quality water heating products for you to choose from. Our professionals are available 24/7 to help with all your water heater and plumbing needs. Contact us today to set up an appointment or to learn more about the services we offer.