How Long Does a Hot Water Heater Last?
You may not be aware of how much you rely on your water heater. However, have you ever asked yourself, how long do water heaters last? Knowing the value of water heater repair and care, just might save you from uncomfortable situations. What if you got up one morning to quickly shower before heading to work and your water heater were broken? When your water heater breaks, you realize how important this appliance is. Yet, with proper care and maintenance, you can help assure a long lifespan for this piece of equipment. Does this Spark an idea?
Function
Water heaters contain a heavy steel inner tank, which typically holds forty to sixty gallons of water. The tank has thick insulation and two external tubes. One of them brings cold water into the tank, while the other sends heated water out. Heating elements or a burner heat the water in the tank, and a thermostat controls the water temperature. The pressure relief valve helps ensure safety and the drain valve allows you to drain the tank when necessary.
Types
The type of water heater you choose will be a factor when determining how long it will last. Tank water heaters are the most commonly used type in the United States. These water heaters typically use either gas or electricity to heat the water, although some newer models are solar-powered. Tankless water heaters have risen in popularity in recent years. They heat the water as it passes through, rather than holding onto hot water. Heat pump water heaters can be retrofitted for an existing storage type, and coil or indirect water heaters utilize the home's heating system to heat water.
Considerations
Most storage tank water heaters (gas water heaters or electric) will last between ten and twenty years. The quality of both your local water and the water heater will factor in greatly to this number. The frequency of water heater repair, will also play a role. Tankless water heaters require the least amount of maintenance since they do not hold standing water. An electric tankless water heater can last between twenty to thirty years. An indirect water heater can last up to thirty years as well.
Making Your Water Heater Last
Drain your water heater at least once a year to prolong its lifespan. First, disconnect the power supply. Turn off the breaker if it is electric, or turn the thermostat to "Pilot" if it is gas. Attach a hose to the drain valve and run it outdoors. Disable the cold water supply. Run the hot water in a nearby sink to prevent a vacuum. Open the drain valve and drain all of the water to remove damaging sediment. Once it is drained, close the valve, remove the hose, turn on the cold water supply and immediately restart the water heater.
Warning
If you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or unsure of your abilities, hire a professional to perform maintenance on your water heater. Gas, electricity and water heater can all be dangerous. If you have a gas water heater and smell gas at any time during maintenance, get everyone out of the house and call your gas supplier, either from your cell phone or from a neighbor's phone. Do not use a phone in your home, as any electrical spark could ignite the gas.
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