Have you ever wondered how your faucets and bath heads switch from cold to hot water with a simple turn? The answer is found inside your water heater. Ensuring that this appliance stays in good working order is essential, as heated water is something most of us cannot live without. Whether you’re taking a shower or washing the dishes, warm and hot water plays an important part in our everyday lives. However, no household appliance is perfect, and to prevent a sudden loss of heated water (which usually warrants a search for “find a plumber in Newnan, GA”), it is crucial to understand how long a typical, modern water heater lasts before it’s time to replace it.

How Does My Water Heater Work?

The most common type of water heater is the conventional, or “tank-style,” water heater. Inside the tank, a heating element or burner (powered by gas or electricity) heats up the water to the desired temperature. When cold water enters the tank, it sinks to the bottom and gets heated by the heating element or burner. As the water heats up, it rises to the top of the tank and is stored there until someone turns on a hot water faucet. When the faucet is turned on, hot water is drawn from the top of the tank and flows through the plumbing to the faucet for instant use.

Why Would My Water Heater Fail?

In order to calculate a water heater’s lifespan, you’ll first have to understand what causes a water heater failure in the first place. A few of the most common causes are:

  • Sediment Build-UpYour water tank contains several types of minerals. Eventually, these will settle to the bottom. Without a professional plumbing repair, this build-up can cause leaks and corrosion.
  • Anode Rod Corrosion – Inside your water heater is a protective device called an “anode rod.” Its main job is to protect the steel in your tank from corrosion. If compromised, your water heater will rust and eventually develop leaks.
  • Neglecting Regular Maintenance – Like most appliances around the house, your water heater needs regular upkeep to ensure that it runs the way it’s supposed to.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

The lifespan of a modern water heater depends on several factors, such as the make and model, as well as the presence of the possible complications listed above, Other factors include your heater’s energy source and the type of water you use. However, on average, modern water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, sometimes running smoothly for up to 20 years if given high-quality maintenance.

If you need plumbing repair in Senoia, GA,  residential plumbing in Fayetteville, GA, or service in the surrounding areas, consider calling Fitzgerald & Sons Plumbing Company for all your water heater needs. Family-owned and operated since 1984, we’re your prime choice for high-quality, licensed, 24-hour plumbing services! For more information on what we offer, call us today at (770) 487-8714!