FAQs
Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, providing hot water for showers, dishes and laundry every day. Understanding how it works and spotting problems early can save you from cold showers and expensive repairs. Here are answers to common questions:
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
Traditional water heaters typically last eight to 12 years, while tankless units operate for 15-20 years with proper maintenance. How long your water heater lasts depends on several things, like your water quality, how much you use it and whether you keep up with maintenance. If you have hard water with lots of minerals, your unit might not last as long. Regular flushing and replacing the anode can help it last longer.
Why Is Water Leaking From My Water Heater?
Water leaks usually happen because of loose connections, worn-out parts or a tank that's getting old and corroded. The most common culprit is the temperature and pressure relief valve, which releases water when there's too much pressure in the tank. If you see water pooling at the bottom, it's often from sediment buildup that's damaged the tank over time. Leaks at the top usually come from loose inlet or outlet connections. When you spot any water around your heater, immediately turn off the power and water supply, then call a professional. While loose connections might just need tightening, a leaking tank usually means it's time for a replacement.
Why Is My Water Heater Making Noise?
If your water heater is making popping, crackling or rumbling sounds, sediment may be built up at the bottom of your tank. When water tries to heat up through all those mineral deposits, it creates those mini explosions you hear. Some sounds are normal, like occasional crackling from condensation or gentle humming from the heating elements. But loud banging, constant rumbling or screeching sounds are warning signs you shouldn't ignore. Ticking might be caused by pressure changes, while whistling usually means a valve is loose and letting air escape. The good news is that flushing your tank once a year prevents most of the issues that would result in strange noises.
Why Isn't My Water Heater Working?
There are several reasons why your water heater has stopped working, including tripped circuit breakers, failed heating elements, sediment buildup or age. Check if the power is on, look for tripped circuit breakers, and make sure gas valves are open if you have a gas unit. If those basics are fine, you might be dealing with failed heating elements, a broken thermostat or an extinguished pilot light. Sometimes, sediment buildup makes your heating elements work so hard that they burn out. Age plays a big role, too. Once your unit is 10 years old, multiple parts may fail, and replacement is the best option.