Posted: August 17, 2020
Did you know that the average household spends up to 30% of its energy dollars on heating water? To ensure you get hot water when you need it, and extend the life of your water heater, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper maintenance.
The life span of a tank-style water heater can vary greatly—anywhere from 7 to 13 years. How long your tank water heater will last depends on a number of factors, including the temperature of the water in the tank, the volume of water used, the overall quality of water heater model, and whether you have hard or soft water.
It is advisable to have your technician flush out the water tank once a year to remove sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the tank. At this time, the condition of the anode rod can be evaluated also. In general, the anode rod will last anywhere from 3-5 years.
Tank water heaters contain many parts and components, including a long metal anode rod, which extends the life of your water heater by preventing corrosion from building up inside your tank.
Usually made of magnesium or aluminum, the anode rod does its job through a process called electrolysis. The metals in the anode rod attract ions that normally would cause rust in iron and steel. But instead, these ions latch on to the anode rod and as a result, cause it to degrade over time. Without the anode rod, your water heater could rust out in just a few years.
If you think your water heater is failing—please contact us about your options. We install all types of water heaters—oil, propane, natural gas and electric—so not only does our team have vast experience but we know how to handle any situation that might arise in a typical installation job.
This is the most common type of water heater, with a dedicated burner inside to heat water that is stored in a tank. As you use the water in the tank, the supply of hot water is constantly replenished.
Indirect-fired water heaters use the burner inside your boiler to heat your tap water. An indirect-fired water heater is one of the most efficient water heating options available.
More homeowners are opting for a tankless water heater when it’s time to replace their direct-fired unit. (If you have a tankless water heater, you do not have to worry about getting the anode rod checked because it doesn’t need one).
These customers take advantage of an option that needs less space in the home and that provides a virtually endless supply of hot water on demand. Tankless water heaters are also more energy-efficient and have a longer life than other types of water heaters.
Please contact us for more information about your water heater options or if you have questions about water heater maintenance. Read more about water heaters.