Typical service life
Many tank water heaters serve for roughly a decade, sometimes more with care. Tankless units often last longer. Hard water, high temperature settings and skipped maintenance shorten it.
How to find your heater's age
- Locate the label on the tank jacket.
- Look for the manufacture date or serial number.
- Many brands encode the year and month in the serial number.
- If it is a rental, your rental company may have the install date.
Rental check: Look at your gas bill for a water heater rental charge.
What shortens tank life
- Sediment building up in hard water
- A worn-out anode rod
- Very high temperature settings
- A relief valve that is never tested
Signs it is wearing out
- Rusty hot water
- Rumbling as it heats
- Moisture at the base
- Hot water running out quickly
Plan ahead
If yours is older and showing signs, plan a replacement. Regular flushing helps.