How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
Water heater systems provide reliable access to hot water in your Florida home. From hot showers to clean dishes, a properly functioning water heater is essential to any modern residence.
But like any appliance, water heaters have a finite lifespan, and it’s important to understand how long your unit will last so you can make the appropriate preparations for a replacement system.
In this blog post, the plumbing experts at Iceberg Home Services explore the key factors that influence the longevity of your water heater and what you can do to help extend its lifespan.
Factors Influencing Water Heater Lifespan
Several factors come into play when determining the lifespan of your water heater system, including:
- Installation quality: Properly installed water heaters are more likely to have a longer lifespan than those that have been poorly installed. Improper installation can lead to premature wear and tear.
- Maintenance schedule: Flushing the tank to remove sediment, checking for leaks, and inspecting the anode are all essential tasks that can prevent problems and extend the water heater’s lifespan.
- System type: Traditional tank water heaters typically last around 10 to 15 years, while tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years or more with proper system maintenance.
- Usage patterns: The daily demands placed on your water heater system can also influence its longevity. A heater that’s constantly working overtime may wear out faster than one that’s used more sparingly.
- Water quality: If your home has hard water, the high levels of calcium and magnesium can cause excess sediment buildup, which may shorten the lifespan of your system.
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Water Heater
While some of the factors affecting your water heater’s lifespan can’t be avoided, there are some things that homeowners can do to extend their system’s longevity, including:
- Install an expansion tank: If you have a closed-loop water system, installing an expansion tank can help relieve pressure on your water heater, reducing the risk of damage and prolonging its lifespan.
- Lower the temperature: Reducing the temperature on your water heater can minimize wear and tear on the heating elements and extend its lifespan. Most manufacturers recommend setting the temperature to 120º F.
- Monitor water quality: If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup in your water heater, preventing corrosion and extending its lifespan.
- Schedule annual maintenance: Hire a professional plumber to inspect and maintain your water heater at least once annually. They can flush the tank, check for leaks, and ensure all components work properly.
- Water heater blanket: Insulating your water heater with a blanket can help improve its efficiency and reduce heat loss, ultimately extending the unit’s lifespan.
Choose Iceberg Home Services for Water Heater Services
One of the best things you can do for your water heater is keep up with regular maintenance to prevent sediment buildup and catch repair needs early. At Iceberg Home Services, our plumbing professionals offer the extensive water heater solutions you need to preserve your system’s lifespan for the long term.
Whether you need a water heater tune-up or same-day water heater repairs for a faulty system, our team will deliver the top-quality solutions you need to keep your system flowing smoothly.
Schedule water heater services in Central Florida by calling Iceberg Home Services today.
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