Among the appliances fundamental to the comfortable running of the home is the water heater. But these hard-working appliances do not last forever. So, on average, how long can you expect a water heater to last, and can you do anything to keep it working for longer?


The average amount of time a water heater will last is around 10 years. There are, however, numerous factors that will alter this number. The amount of use the water heater gets is one of those factors. It stands to reason that the more water that needs heating, the harder the water heater will need to work, which will make it wear out quicker. Water also tends to have a corrosive effect on appliances, so the greater the volume of water used, the more likelihood there is of damage to the heater. If your home has hard water, its high mineral content can build up in the water heater and prevent it from working optimally.

Another way the lifespan of a water heater can be reduced is if it has been placed in a bad location. Water heaters should be installed in an upright position and an area with a good amount of ventilation. Avoid installing it in areas prone to flooding, which will cause rust and damage. When deciding where the water heater should be installed you also want to think about making it easily accessible for future repairs and maintenance.


Finally, the quality of the water heater plays another big role in assessing its lifespan. As is the case with most appliances, a water heater will last longer if it is a good quality one.

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