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If you want to know how long do water heaters last, read this article. Taking care of the unit will extend its life by 20 years or more. Gas-powered water heaters tend to need more repairs and maintenance, while electric models last longer. This article will discuss the maintenance costs associated with each type of water heater. Ultimately, your decision on which type of water heater to purchase should be based on its features and cost.
Electric storage tank water heaters last longer than gas-powered units
While gas-powered units have lower operating costs, they still use more energy. A typical 50-gallon tank can take several hours to recover, and an electric unit is susceptible to power outages. Additionally, conventional gas storage units lose heat through exhaust gases and the walls of the tank. The advantage of an electric water heater is that the hot water remains hot at all times. Additionally, top-of-the-line units use condensing technology and can be enhanced with two inches of foam insulation around the storage tank.
Maintenance for gas-powered units is relatively easy. While an electric water heater requires occasional flushing, gas water heaters may need cleaning if sediment builds up. Also, gas lines must be checked for leaks and flushed to ensure the safety of your water heater. Gas water heaters typically last longer than electric ones. When you’re planning to replace a gas-powered unit, keep in mind that you’ll need to install new gas lines and a second vent. These additional costs will affect the cost of the project and add to installation time.
While gas-powered units typically have longer warranties than electric models, they may require more maintenance. Generally, a well-maintained gas unit can last up to 20 years, while an electric water heater can last for a few more years. Even though tankless water heaters are cheaper up front, the upkeep on them may require more frequent maintenance and repair. If you have children in your house, you may want to consider an electric unit instead.
The biggest difference between an electric and gas-powered water heater is cost. The gas-powered unit costs less money in the long run and is therefore more eco-friendly. However, the cost of electricity is significantly higher than gas-powered units. Depending on where you live, electricity rates may be higher than gas bills. Ultimately, it comes down to your needs and your budget. You should consider the features and cost of both before making a decision.
Aside from being more efficient, electric water heaters are more energy-efficient and are more environmentally-friendly. As electric units do not require venting, they can save money in the long run. As with any type of appliance, an electric water heater has its benefits and disadvantages. While gas units are more economical and efficient, electric water heaters have their own pros and cons. The electric water heater is a better choice if you have limited space and do not want to invest in venting and other additional costs.
Another major difference between electric and gas water heaters is their energy cost. Natural gas costs less than electricity and is more efficient, so choosing a gas-powered unit can save you more than 30% on your utility bill. Besides, electric tankless water heaters are less expensive than gas-powered units. However, upgrading your home’s electrical system is not an inexpensive endeavor. In addition, gas prices vary depending on where you live.
Proper care can extend the life of a water heater by up to 20 years
Regular maintenance is important to keep your water heater running smoothly. A water heater is an essential part of your home. If it breaks down, it can wreak havoc when you’re doing simple tasks. A few tips on water heater maintenance include raising the temperature, replacing the heater element, and insulating hot water pipes. These small, but important maintenance tips can extend the life of your water heater by as much as 20 years.
Before you use your water heater, turn off the gas and lift the safety valve. The valve will then snap back into place. Occasionally replacing the pressure valve will help prolong the life of your water heater. Also, if you experience any problems with your water heater, check the anode rod, a metal rod that attracts sediment and deposits before they can build up in the tank lining.
Regular flushing is another way to prolong the life of your water heater. Flushing the tank will remove any sediment that may have accumulated over the years. However, be sure to flush the drain valve with cold water to avoid clogging it and accelerating internal corrosion. If this doesn’t work, the sediment can also affect the internal pressure of the water heater, which could result in a failure.
When it comes to regular maintenance, water heaters can last anywhere from eight to ten years. This is largely dependent on the type of unit you have installed. Conventional water heaters usually last between six and eight years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years. Proper care can extend the lifespan of your water heater by as much as 20 years. However, you should not ignore the need to replace the anode rods after they reach five years.
The quality of water used in your home can affect the lifespan of your water heater. Hard water is defined by high levels of magnesium and calcium in your water supply. Hard water reduces the life of your water heater because it will cause sediment deposits. Hard water is especially damaging to your water heater. To mitigate these problems, consider installing a water softener. By using this device, you can help extend the life of your water heater.
Aside from proper maintenance, water heaters need to be inspected every year. If there’s rust or corroded water inside the tank, the anode rod must be replaced. It is best to change the anode rod every three to five years. Before you start inspecting, make sure you turn off electricity and drain the water to see if it is corroded. If rust or corroded, it will dramatically reduce the lifespan of your water heater.
Maintenance costs of a water heater
Water heater maintenance is not a cheap affair. A typical water heater can last for anywhere from 10 to 20 years, and even though these appliances are designed to conserve energy, they still need regular maintenance to ensure that they are as efficient as possible. Fortunately, many homeowners can save money on water heater maintenance by calling a professional. While you may have the knowledge and expertise to perform some basic checks yourself, there are many other maintenance tasks that need professional attention.
Fusing a water heater is a common problem that can cost you $50 to $75 to fix. Depending on your home’s wiring, water heater fuses can be located in the circuit breaker box or main electrical panel. Fuse replacements can be costly, since they can be blown or tripped due to problems with the heater. If you find the fuse is blown or tripped, you’ll have to replace it and possibly replace the part as well.
You can also save money by changing the anode rod, which prevents corrosion and extends the life of the water heater. Replacing the anode rod yourself costs around $50, but if you’re not comfortable doing it, a plumber can help you. Their services may cost $150 or more. Another small component that needs replacement is the pressure valve. This is a critical part of the water heater because it carries cold water from the top to the bottom. Occasionally, a leak in the dip tube could cause the water to mix with hot water. Moreover, it will decrease the overall temperature of the water.
A water heater’s thermostat should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Lowering the temperature by a few degrees can save energy and cut down on the cost of heating water by as much as 5%. If you notice that the water heater is leaking water from the bottom of the tank, you may need to replace the entire unit. The temperature and pressure relief valve should be checked regularly. Lastly, you should also check the surrounding pipes for leaks.
Even if a water heater has a long lifespan, it may break down due to a variety of factors. For example, you might notice that it is making a whirring noise, or that it’s leaking over the walls. If you’ve noticed this, the problem is likely to be sediment buildup, and a replacement would be a better investment in the long run. Moreover, water heaters last anywhere from eight to ten years.
Luckily, there are several simple DIY repairs for your water heater that can be done in your own home. If there’s an odor in the water, you can replace the pop-off valve. If you notice a leak, you can even change the anode rod, which is responsible for removing any corrosive minerals from the water. Otherwise, you can call a professional plumber to get it fixed for you.
