Like most homeowners, you probably don’t think much about your water heater until it stops working. Then, you quickly realize how much you rely on it for hot showers, laundry, and doing the dishes. Going from a relaxing hot shower to screaming when cold water suddenly hits your skin is the first sign you need to repair or replace your current water heater because something’s wrong.
Let’s look at how long traditional and tankless water heaters last and what you should know about replacing them.
How Long Should a Water Heater Last?
Most traditional residential water heaters last between 6 and 13 years. You’ll get more life out of your water heater with annual maintenance and quickly tackling repairs when needed.
Should a Tankless Water Heater Last Longer?
Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, can last up to 25 years. Like traditional water heaters, tankless ones need annual maintenance, too. Ensuring you stay on top of maintenance and repairs where needed will maximize its lifespan.
When Should You Replace a Water Heater or Tankless Water Heater?
There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to replace a water heater, such as age, type, and size. Most homeowners replace their water heater or tankless water heater when something goes wrong, and the cost of repairs outweighs the cost of replacing it.
Others opt to replace their water heater early to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model, depending on how old their home is and the age of their current water heater.
When it comes down to it, scheduling water heater service with a reputable company like Heritage Home Service is the best way to decide if it’s time to replace your system. During your appointment, we can inspect and evaluate the efficiency of your water heater.
Based on what we uncover, we will offer recommendations so you can make the best decision for your home’s water heater needs.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater (No Matter the Type)
If you are experiencing any of the following problems, it may be time to replace your water heater or tankless water heater:
- Your system is older than ten years for a traditional water heater and 15 years for a tankless one.
- You are running out of hot water sooner than usual.
- Your hot water is not as hot as it used to be.
- Your water heater makes strange noises, like gurgling, popping, or hissing.
- Your water heater is leaking, or you notice puddles here or there.
- You must keep resetting your water heater.
Most homeowners realize something is wrong with their water heater when it stops heating water. This often starts as water being lukewarm vs. hot when you take a shower, wash your hands, or do the dishes. Sometimes, the water heater fails for one reason or another, and you get cold water when you turn on the faucet.
If you notice anything unusual with your water, it’s time to call Heritage for service.
Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater or Tankless Water Heater?
The newer your water heater, the more long-lasting and efficient it will be. As water heater technology evolves, more homeowners are reaping the benefits of newer water heater models. So not only will a new water heater finally provide the right amount of hot water you need for your home, but you’ll save money, too.
There are a lot of factors that go into replacing or upgrading your water heater or upgrading to a tankless one. However, if you’re not sure you need a new one, we’re happy to give you the answers you need to decide what steps to take next with your water heater. Contact us today!