How Long Will Your Water Heater Last? | TF Complete

How Long Will Your Water Heater Last?

water heaters massachusettsDid you know that about 20 percent of your household’s energy is spent heating water? That’s according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Your water heater contributes mightily to how much you spend on fuel over the course of a year.

An efficient, well-functioning water heater is also essential for your home’s comfort. It makes steaming hot showers, clean dishes and spotless laundry possible. At TF Complete Heating & Cooling, we help households in Bristol, Middlesex, Norfolk and Worcester Counties identify the ideal hot water solution.

It’s crucial to stay ahead of the game when it comes to arranging a water heater replacement. If you wait until your current unit fails, you might be left without hot water while we secure new equipment for you. Here is a rundown of how long a water heater tends to last.

What to expect from a water heater’s lifespan

Knowing the life expectancy of your water heater will help you plan for its replacement rather than waiting until your shower suddenly turns cold.

Traditional water heaters

Water heaters with storage tanks can operate for 8 to twelve years before needing to be replaced. The main reason a traditional water heater fails is internal corrosion. Corrosion is caused by particles in your water. Manufacturers place an anode rod inside water tanks, and this rod draws corrosive particulates to it and away from the tank’s lining. Eventually, the rod corrodes completely, and soon the tank starts to deteriorate.

Flushing sediment from your water heater each year can help extend its lifespan.

Indirect-fired and on-demand water heaters

Indirect-fired water heaters use heat from your boiler to generate hot water. On-demand water heaters (also called tankless water heaters) use a powerful flame to heat water only when you open a tap. Both products make virtually unlimited hot water on demand, and neither has a large storage tank. Consequently, they have less exposure to corrosive particles and longer life expectancies —up to 20 years!

How you can tell if your water heater is nearing retirement

Internal corrosion isn’t always apparent because you can’t see it from the outside. Here are a few warning signs you can look for:

TF Complete Heating & Cooling ensures your home comfort!

We are the most trusted home heating and cooling company in the region, and we also handle water heater installation, service, and repairs. In short, we are your one-stop shop for Complete home comfort!

If your current water heater is displaying some signs that it’s past its prime, get in touch with us right away. We’ll help you find a great replacement, perhaps even upgrade you to an indirect-fired or on-demand water heater. You’ll be amazed by the enhanced hot water generation and reduction in your annual energy costs.

Drop us a line right now for a FREE ESTIMATE. Our team members are ready to help!

mail Contact us today to schedule a routine maintenance visit. If you need an emergency repair, please call our office right away at 508-507-6702, and we will get to your home as soon as we can.