Hot water systems are an essential part of our everyday life – from showering to running the dishwasher to filling the sink – but we often don’t realise how much we rely on them until something goes wrong. Since hot water systems are working 24 hours a day in our homes, it should come as no surprise that they do have a life span. Here are some of the factors that affect this and what can be done to improve its longevity.
What is the average life span of a hot water system?
The average life span of a hot water system is 8-12 years and the cost of replacing it depends on the size, brand, and model of your unit, as well as where you live and what type of installation options are available in your area.
To avoid having to replace your water system more than you should need to, it’s a good idea to know what types of things affect its life span and what you can do to avoid wearing them out.
Does lifespan differ for different types of systems?
Yes! Different types of water heaters have different lifespans, with some being longer than others.
A gas water tank has less risk of corrosion, it can last up to 15-20 years before it needs to be replaced, whereas an electric system, is more susceptible to corrosion, may only last for 8 years.
However, maintenance and water quality most definitely come into play when determining how long a water pump will last, so it’s important to keep this in mind.
Taking care of leaks
By regularly inspecting your hot water system, you can make sure that small issues are dealt with before they become something more serious.
For example, if you don’t change your filter regularly, this can cause sediment to build up in the bottom and can cause many problems such as leakages.
By keeping an eye out for leaks and being aware of the cleanliness of your water system, you help to avoid corrosion and therefore contribute to increasing the lifespan of your water heater.
Maintenance
If a hot water system is properly maintained and monitored it will last longer, possibly even longer than the average 8–12-year life span.
If you want to keep your hot water system in good shape, it pays to be proactive. The longer you can keep a water heater running smoothly, the better, as this will reduce the amount of money you spend on repairs, replacement parts, and labour costs down the road.
Here are some things that you should do regularly if you want your water heater to stay in good working order:
- Check all hoses for leaks and make sure they are connected properly.
- If there is any damage or wear-and-tear on the hoses, replace them immediately with new ones.
- Check hoses regularly (at least once per month) so when problems arise, they don’t escalate into something bigger than what they need to be.
Your hot water system should last a long time if it’s properly maintained. For more advice, contact us at David Lewis Plumbing today.