Do you enjoy taking hot baths to release stress after a long day’s work?
A quality instantaneous hot water system ensures you have access to heated water precisely when needed. It’s crucial to understand that the longevity of gas and electric systems, particularly those designed for hot water, hinges on factors such as water type, device quality, and maintenance regimen.
Today, we will tell you how long hot water systems last and also throw light on the signs indicating that you might need a new system.
How Long Do Hot Water Systems Last?
Given the broad spectrum of brand claims, estimating the hot water system lifespan can pose challenges.
Our research and industry experience has shown that a continuous flow gas hot water system can provide up to 15 to 20 years of service when adequately maintained. Conversely, electric systems, specifically hot water ones, can serve up to 12 years, particularly if equipped with a storage tank.
You must opt for regular maintenance for a hot water system to perform consistently for a long time. Some people like to check their hot water systems every six months to see if they are used regularly or occasionally yearly. While this might cost some money, you can improve their life expectancy by a few years.
When a hot water unit with a tank has lasted 8 to 10 years or a tankless system has reached 10 to 12 years, you can start planning to replace it. A dependable water system will last longer, but the heating element may have deteriorated inside. That could mean the hot water systems will consume more energy than expected.
You must plan when you know the water heater is malfunctioning and must be replaced. Purchasing a new one is not difficult, but it will require some planning, especially if you want to shift from standard gas tanks to electric tankless options.
Also, you will have to check the Google rating of the product and ensure you hire a local plumber for installation.
How To Know If your Water Heater May Stop Working
Hot water systems last for a specific amount of time, as mentioned by the manufacturer, but you can make them last longer with regular maintenance. However, some signs suggest you should start looking for a new system.
1. Smells Weird
If the water smells weird or tastes bad, there can be something inside the hot water tank. Storage tanks can have bacteria growing inside, or they might have absorbed metal, giving the water a funky smell. Try cleaning the hot water units, but if the water still smells, call a licensed plumber for help.
2. Banging Sounds
When it is time to replace your hot water system, you may start hearing rumbling noises from the water heater system. A sediment build-up inside the hot water heater usually causes this problem.
Calcium accumulates and creates a layer at the tank’s base, which hardens over time to form a thick crust. As a result, the water heater will bang and creak when used.
Check how much hot water flows through your system before calling local experts to clear the calcium layer and flush it out. However, sometimes the layers that form are permanent, and the hot water system may not last beyond a few months.
3. Low Water Temperature
Have you noticed that your hot water doesn’t heat up as much as it used to? This might indicate that the system has become old and needs to be replaced. The machine may also stop being energy efficient, causing a spike in energy bills.
4. Discoloured Water Or Bad Water Quality
Dirty yellow or red water means there is rust in the system. Firstly, you will need to understand if the coloured water is coming from the cold water tap or just the hot water one. If it is coming from both taps, there could be issues with the main water pipe; otherwise, the inside of the water unit may have corroded and rusted.
5. Less Hot Water
Another sign that the hot water system will not last long is if the hot water flow from the tap is low. Sediments accumulate inside the tank, decreasing the water space available. So, the hot water may run out quickly, and you must clean and drain the tank.
6. Hard Water
Hard water is extremely detrimental to hot water systems, and you might see a lot of limestone build-up. Also, the average lifespan of the unit may be reduced by two years because of this. Mineral build-up leads to blockage of pipes and tank openings which can cause slow movement of hot water. Also, the space in the tank gets reduced, leading to a reduced amount of hot water.
7. Pooling Of Water
Call your local plumber immediately if you see water leaking from the hot water tank system. There could be a valve or a fitting that has come loose and will need to be replaced or tightened. It is an emergency plumbing situation when hot water units leak, and it should be handled accordingly.
On the other hand, the tank could have corroded or cracked, which would mean getting a new unit.
When To Call The Manufacturer For Repairs?
Always verify your hot water system warranty duration for a hassle-free repair process. Instead of choosing a new tank, contact the manufacturers, who will offer free hot water service and repairs at a nominal charge.
Nonetheless, if you encounter a broken heating element, other significant plumbing issues, or the outer surface has deteriorated, you might need to change the heater soon. So, start planning and saving up if required.
Is It Time To Replace Your What Heater?
So, how long do hot water systems last? While understanding how long hot water systems last, be careful about the location. The water temperature will be low if you install the new hot water system in a crawl space or garage. Hence, hot water systems have to work more to heat the water.
So, when hiring plumbing services, get them to install the hot water unit somewhere safe without any sudden fluctuations in temperature. Additionally, engage with professionals who offer comprehensive hot water services to ensure you choose a water heater that fits your family.
This will increase the unit’s lifespan by a few more years and make it cost-effective. Also, to take care of your hot water system, empty the hot water tank at intervals to maintain it in top condition.
Whether you need hot water system maintenance installation or repair, Big Blue Plumbing covers you. Our years of experience and knowledge of solar, heat pump, electric, and gas hot water systems make us the ideal choice to maintain yours. To speak with a plumber, call us today!
