To most homeowners in Gainesville, a water heater is an essential household component. Whether you want to take a relaxing bath or need to wash a load of white clothes, you must have a reliable source of hot water. While a well-maintained water heater can last for quite a long time, it will eventually wear out. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors that can impact a unit’s lifespan.
Type of Water Heater
The majority of conventional tank-style units are rated to last up to 15 years. On the other hand, tankless water heaters have an average life expectancy of 20 years or more. While tankless systems may beat conventional water heaters in terms of longevity, they do initially cost more money.
Maintenance
To get the maximum life out of your water heater, be sure to have it serviced at the recommended intervals. Traditional water heaters are designed with an anode rod, which should be replaced every three to five years. This critical part helps protect the tank from corrosion by attracting minerals and sediment. If you neglect to replace the anode rod, it’s only a matter of time before the tank begins to rust away from the inside out. Meanwhile, tankless units have an air intake filter that needs to be periodically changed out.
Regardless of what type of water heater you have, it needs to be drained and flushed at least once a year. However, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing suggests doing so every six months to be on the safe side. Other recommended maintenance includes testing the unit’s temperature pressure relief valve and checking for leaks.
Water Quality
Like the vast majority of areas in Florida, Gainesville suffers from hard water. While hard water isn’t a health hazard, it can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. This type of water contains excess minerals such as limestone, which can gradually damage your water heater.
To counter the effects of hard water, residents should consider the installation of a water treatment system. By removing certain elements from the water, the system can extend the life of your entire plumbing system.
Installation
For good reason, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing strongly advises homeowners to have their water heater installed by a licensed plumber. Amateurs are far more prone to make mistakes, which could ultimately cause you to waste a lot of money in the long run.
This is a job that needs to be done correctly the first time. From leaks to poor heating, there are plenty of potential issues that can stem from nonprofessional installation. Failure to properly install the unit’s pressure relief valve could even cause an explosion.
Water Usage
If you have a big household that consumes a lot of hot water every week, your water heater may not last as long. The unit must be large enough to handle the extra workload. Before choosing a new water heater, consult a professional. They will be able to determine the ideal size for your home.