When your hot water heater malfunctions or begins to fail you might worry about how long you can continue to use it before you need to replace it. However, the answer is not always straightforward. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, for example, the time has come for a new one. Even if it seems to work just fine right now, it could develop a small issue over time that will become a big problem. The same can be said for water heaters with certain defects that pose an imminent safety hazard. In such cases, it is best to replace the faulty unit as soon as possible. The following guide will explain when it is time to swap out your hot water tank in your home. No matter what your situation is, it’s good to know exactly when you should replace your hot water tank so you don’t have to worry about it later down the line.

Signs of imminent failure

There are some things that can clue you in to the fact that your water heater is about to fail and become a hazard. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s probably time to replace your water tank as soon as possible: - Water temperature that is inconsistent - Water hammer - Water leaking from the tank - A foul smell coming from the water supply - Cracks or other visible damage to the tank - Something leaking from inside the tank that shouldn’t be there - A water tank that is more than 10 years old - A water tank that isn’t sized properly for your home

10-year rule

If you’re in the market for a new water heater, you might be concerned about the age of the appliances in your home. Many older models have been around for many years, which means you might be hesitant to replace them with more modern units. However, there is one rule you should never break when it comes to replacing an appliance: The 10-year rule. The rule states that if a device has been in use for 10 years or more, it is time to replace it so it doesn’t break down and cause problems in the future. You should follow this rule even if your water heater is relatively new. It might seem silly, but the longer a device is in use, the more it is exposed to the elements and other elements that can cause it to break down faster.

Malfunctioning water heater

While a water tank that is 10 years or older might seem like an obvious candidate for replacement, a water tank that doesn’t work can be even more problematic. If your water tank isn’t working properly and creating a hazard for you and your family, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible. It’s important to note that not all water tank malfunctions require immediate replacement. In some cases, the issue might be minor and require only a small fix. However, if the problem is more serious, it’s best to replace the water tank as soon as possible. This can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety of you and your family.

Safety first

In some cases, the safety of your family might depend on replacing your water tank. This can be the case if your water tank malfunctions and is posing a safety hazard. If your water tank is leaking, for example, it could cause a flood and put you and your family at risk. If your water tank is not properly insulated, it could also lead to extremely high water bills. In these cases, it might be best to replace the water tank as soon as possible to ensure the safety of you and your family.

Bottom line

The sooner you replace your water tank, the better. It might seem like it isn’t an urgent matter, especially if the water tank seems to be working just fine. However, the longer you wait, the more likely it is that the water tank will break down and become a safety hazard. This can be especially true if the water tank is more than 10 years old. If you are in the process of buying a new water tank or have a water tank that is in good working condition, it might be worth keeping for another few years until you run out of time in your home. However, if your water tank is in need of replacement, it’s best to get it taken care of as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Question

While you technically can install a hot water heater yourself as a homeowner, the likelihood that this is a good or safe idea is very slim. Trust the professionals with your hot water heater installation to make sure it's done correctly. You wouldn't want to cause yourself or your family any harm.
The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For a new tankless water heater, new electric wiring will need to be installed.
Turn off all water supplies in the house. Turn on all the hot water faucets in the house in order to drain what is left in the existing hot water heater. Then, disconnect the water line that connects the water heater to the rest of the house. There is often a connection on a hose that you can simply unscrew.
  • Your older water heater is getting up there in age
  • It's making strange noises
  • You're getting rusty water out of the tap
  • Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
  • There are water puddles around the unit
120 degrees Fahrenheit is the safety recommendation against scalding, but 140° is the common default setting. Most experts agree that anything below 120 degrees creates a risk for bacteria to develop inside your water heater from stagnant water, such as legionella that causes Legionnaire's disease.
These heaters can be fueled by electricity, gas, or liquid propane and installed in many areas of your home. The national average cost to replace a 50-gallon hot water heater is $1,100 to $2,800, with most people paying around $1,800 for a direct replacement of a 50-gallon gas hot water heater using the same model.
  • Your older water heater is getting up there in age
  • It's making strange noises
  • You're getting rusty water out of the tap
  • Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
  • There are water puddles around the unit
These heaters can be fueled by electricity, gas, or liquid propane and installed in many areas of your home. The national average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $1,100 to $2,800, with most people paying around $1,800 for a direct replacement of a 50-gallon gas hot water heater using the same model.
Turn up the thermostat on the hot water heater. One of the easiest ways to make a hot shower last longer is by using less hot water while it's at a higher temperature. To do this, turn up the temperature on the thermostat that's attached to the hot water heater tank. (Not the thermostat on the wall.)