Discover the secret to a longer water heater lifespan

The water heater is the unsung hero appliance of the household suite. We use it multiple times a day, every single day, without much thought – until something goes wrong. So, how can you avoid preventable breakdowns and, in doing so, prolong the life of your water heater?

For any property owner, a water heating system is an essential long-term investment. When properly cared for, the average tank water heater has a lifespan of 8-12 years. A tankless unit can last even longer, at 15-20 years. However, improper and infrequent maintenance can lead to a range of issues, and ultimately reduce its efficiency and longevity. And, with the average cost of a replacement unit ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, it can also become a costly error.

So, no matter the make or type of water heater in your home, regular maintenance is essential. And there are several ways you can maximize the lifespan of your water heater, with minimal effort. Let’s lift the lid on our secrets to a longer water heater lifespan.

Flush your water heater regularly

One way to optimize the efficiency and longevity of your water heater is to periodically check, drain and flush the tank. This prevents the buildup of sediment, rust and corrosion, which can affect the efficiency and performance of your system. It can also become a safety hazard, as a buildup of sediment can also block the pressure and relief valve.

While this process should be carried out by a licensed professional every 6-12 months, opting for a more advanced water heater with integrated smart solutions can help to maintain optimal performance even between services. For example, Rheem’s Fury® water heater line has been designed with preventative care in mind. Its innovative EverKleen™ technology is a self-cleaning device, which fights harmful sediment buildup with a high-velocity spiraling water stream. This helps to optimize operating efficiency by saving energy, money and improving tank life.

Install a water softener

Regularly flushing your system may be crucial, but there’s an additional step you can take to treat the root cause rather than the symptoms. Water hardness is an issue throughout the GCC, and can be deeply damaging to water heater systems. Hard water, which is inherently mineral-rich, causes an accumulation of these deposits in the tank, which can lead to reduced efficiency and lifespan.

Installing a water softener is a simple but effective way to mitigate the damage that hard water can cause to a water heating system. It works by removing the excess minerals within water – such as calcium and magnesium – which cause it to become ‘hard’, a process known as ion exchange. This can significantly extend the life of your water heater and, as an added benefit, it can also improve the strength and quality of your hair and skin, too.

Check for leaks

It also pays to regularly inspect your water heater for any signs of leakage. If you notice even minor leaks, address them promptly to prevent water damage and prolong the unit’s life.

This is also where your water heater of choice can deliver real added value. In addition to being extremely energy-efficient, Rheem’s EcoNet ProTerra® premium models include exclusive water leak detection and an automatic water shut-off valve, to alert you to any leaks as soon as they appear and also guard against damage.

Keep an eye on your anode

The anode is a really important element of the water heater system. It is a metal rod – made of either magnesium or aluminum – that attracts the sediment and corrosive elements within a water heater so that the anode itself is corroded rather than the walls of the system.

Your anode rod should be inspected roughly every 2-5 years and, if it has eroded significantly, it should be replaced. This will help to protect and extend the lifespan of your water heater.

This is another instance where a higher-quality water heater can also make a real difference. For example, Rheem’s Fury® electric water heater line features a high-efficiency resistored heating element, which not only helps to prolong tank life but also the lifespan of the anode rod.

Keep it cool

When a water heater is in constant use, it can be tempting to keep it on high all the time. However, this can also cause long-term issues for the system.

Over time, keeping the water at a higher temperature within the tank can increase the accumulation of sediments, which in turn increases the rate of corrosion and shortens the overall lifespan of the system. It also puts additional strain on the heating element, and can significantly increase energy consumption.

By lowering the temperature setting on your water heater to roughly 120°F (49°C), you can slow down mineral buildup, reduce the strain on the heating element and minimize energy consumption.

Thankfully, technological innovation is making it easier than ever to monitor and control your water heater system’s output. For example, Rheem’s new ProTerra tanks feature built-in EcoNet® WiFi technology, making it easier than ever to adjust the temperature at any time, from anywhere in the world.

Schedule professional maintenance

Lastly, make sure that you regularly book a professional technician to inspect your water heater. They can check for issues, adjust settings, and perform maintenance to keep your unit running efficiently.

Thanks to its advanced capabilities, Rheem’s latest ProTerra range of tanks helps make inspections as smooth and seamless as possible. It enables plumbers to view detailed alerts and alarm codes while at the water heater, using either the screen or the Rheem Contractor App to expedite service.

Additionally, Rheem’s products include competitive warranty coverage, including one year on labor, and six years on parts – for quality products, with additional peace of mind.

Prolonging the lifespan of your water heater is much more straightforward and seamless than it sounds. By working with licensed professionals and investing in a high-quality unit, you can not only get the most out of your water heater but also save energy and keep costs down along the way.

To learn more about Rheem’s water heater systems, contact us today.