Water Heater Replacement and Installation FAQs
What is the life expectancy of a water heater?
A water heater’s lifespan can depend on several factors, including the type of water heater, the energy source, the type of local water supply you have, and how well the unit is maintained.
On average, most conventional “tank style” water heaters last between 8 and 12 years but some can last up to 20 years with regular maintenance, particularly tankless models.
How do you know when a water heater needs to be replaced?
Although there are several factors to consider, it may be time to replace your water heater if it’s more than 10 years old, leaks from the tank or water lines, requires frequent repairs, if your water bills have increased significantly, if it delivers inconsistent water temperatures, or if any repair cost is more than 50% of the replacement cost.
If you need a new water heater, be sure to contact the plumbing experts at Pipe Wrench who will help simplify the replacement process by providing the best recommendations tailored to your home and needs.
Why do most water heaters fail?
Water heaters typically fail due to a combination of factors, including but not limited to old age, sediment buildup, tank or component corrosion, faulty heating elements, thermostat issues, faulty valves, and high-water pressure.
What size water heater do I need?
To determine the right size of conventional “tank style” water heater, you should consider your household size, typical hot water usage habits, and peak demand times when you typically use the most hot water.
- Home with 1–2 people – A 30–40 gallon tank is usually sufficient.
- Home with 2–3 people – A 40–50 gallon tank should work.
- Home with 3–4 people – A 50–60 gallon tank is recommended, particularly if you have substantial hot water needs.
- Home with 5+ people – A 60–80 gallon tank is often required regardless of hot water usage.
If you have a large family or have high hot water demands, a tankless water heater could be a better alternative over a conventional tank water heater. Although they don’t store water, they efficiently heat water on demand that can provide long-term cost savings, and near-unlimited hot water.
What should you consider before installing a new water heater?
Before installing a new water heater, you should consider several factors including the type or model (tankless or conventional storage tank), fuel source (natural gas or electricity), size (tanks range from 30–80 gallons), energy efficiency, and installation costs. You also should consider the size of your home, your family’s hot water needs and usage, and the available space needed to house your water heater.
Can I install a water heater myself?
Although you can technically install a water heater yourself, it’s highly recommended hiring a licensed professional plumber like the experts at Pipe Wrench for water heater installation, particularly for gas models. The installation process involves handling plumbing, electrical, and sometimes gas connections, all of which can be complicated, potentially dangerous, and must comply with local codes and safety standards.