How long do water heaters last?
Most water heaters last 10 to 15 years. The Department of Energy says storage water heaters last about 10 to 15 years.
A tank water heater usually fails by leaking, and a leaking tank cannot be repaired. Knowing its age and watching for early signs lets you replace it on your schedule instead of after a flood.
Typical lifespan: 10 to 15 years
The Department of Energy says storage water heaters last about 10 to 15 years.
Water heater maintenance checklist by season
Spring
Look at the tank, pipes and drain pan for rust, moisture or mineral crust. Check the temperature setting. The Department of Energy suggests 120°F for most homes.
Summer
Test the temperature and pressure relief valve by lifting the lever briefly, as the manual describes, with a bucket under the discharge pipe. If it does not reseat or drips afterward, have it replaced.
Fall
Drain a few gallons from the drain valve to flush sediment, or have a plumber do a full flush. Some manufacturers also call for checking the anode rod every few years. Follow your manual.
Winter
Check that the pilot flame on a gas unit is steady and blue, and keep the area around the heater clear. If you will be away in freezing weather, leave the heater on and the home heated.
Signs your water heater needs replacing
- The tank is more than about 10 years old and hot water runs out sooner than it used to.
- Rusty or discolored hot water, or a metallic taste.
- Rumbling or popping from sediment in the tank.
- Moisture or rust at the base or a wet drain pan. A tank leak means replacement.
- Repeated pilot or igniter failures, or a repair quote that is large compared with a new unit.
Typical water heater warranty
Tank warranties are commonly six years on entry models and longer, up to ten or twelve years, on higher models. The warranty typically covers the tank and some parts, and labor is often only covered for the first year, if at all. Registering the unit is sometimes needed for the longer term.
An appliance warranty tracker keeps your water heater's coverage dates and receipt in one place.
What to keep for a water heater
- The installation invoice and permit if one was pulled
- The label with model, serial number and manufacture date, which is on the front or side of the tank
- The warranty card and its term
- The date you last flushed it or checked the anode rod
Common questions
How long do water heaters last?
Most water heaters last 10 to 15 years. The Department of Energy says storage water heaters last about 10 to 15 years.
When should I replace my water heater?
Plan to replace a tank around 10 to 12 years old, or sooner if it leaks, rusts or no longer keeps up. Replacing it before it fails avoids water damage.
How do I find the age of my water heater?
Look at the rating label. Many makers encode the manufacture date in the serial number. The manual or the maker's site explains the code for your brand.
How do I maintain a water heater?
Follow your manual first. Each season: spring, look at the tank, pipes and drain pan for rust, moisture or mineral crust. Check the temperature setting. The Department of Energy suggests 120°F for most homes. Fall, drain a few gallons from the drain valve to flush sediment, or have a plumber do a full flush. Some manufacturers also call for checking the anode rod every few years. Follow your manual.