
When to Replace Your Water Heater: A Homeowner's Guide

Table of Contents
The Lifespan of a Water Heater
Most traditional tank water heaters are designed to last 8 to 12 years. If your unit is approaching a decade old, you are on borrowed time.
Rusty Water and Leaks
If hot water comes out of your faucets looking rusty, the inside of your tank is corroding. If you see moisture or pooling water around the base of the tank, the structural integrity is compromised. Replace it immediately before it bursts.
Lack of Hot Water
If your showers are getting colder faster, or the unit struggles to heat water at all, the heating elements or dip tube may be failing. While sometimes repairable, on an older unit, replacement is often more cost-effective.
Planning Your Upgrade
Replacing a unit proactively allows you to research energy-efficient options, like hybrid heat pump water heaters or tankless systems, rather than making a panicked decision during an emergency.

Written by Reliance Plumbing Solutions
The local experts at Reliance Plumbing Solutions have been serving the Treasure Coast for over 20 years. We share our knowledge to help homeowners protect their property and save money.
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