Usually, hot water systems are designed to be durable. However, the time it can last will depend on various factors, including its quality, material, usage, and type.

A gas hot water system can last between 15 and 20 years. On the other hand, electric hot water systems have an average service life of 8 to 12 years.

Other factors like natural wear and tear, maintenance, ageing, and underlying issues can also affect your hot water system’s life span. Fortunately, you can improve your unit’s lifespan by performing routine maintenance.

An experienced local plumber from Wilco Plumbing can help conduct regular maintenance to keep your hot water system in good shape for the longest time possible.

How to Extend Your Hot Water System Lifespan

Taking good care of your hot water unit can help extend its lifespan. Here are a few things you can do to improve the service life of your team.

Monitor the pressure valve.

The pressure (TPR) valve helps regulate pressure to prevent damage. If unchecked, stress can build up and can result in the valve getting clogged. So it would be best if you checked it a couple of times a year, to ensure it’s in good condition.

Check the anode rod

The role of the anode rod is to capture and keep minerals that protect your system. This component should be inspected annually and replaced when necessary – it has a relatively shorter lifespan of three to five years, especially in harsh areas.

An expert should perform a maintenance flush annually

This is particularly important for those living in challenging water regions. Complex water areas quickly form sediment, which can cause damage from corrosion and make the unit struggle, further lowering the lifespan. A reliable professional can perform a maintenance flush can help remove the sediment.

How to Tell If Your Hot Water System Needs Replacing

• Low temperature: For example, if the hot water runs out faster than usual or takes a while to heat, it could be a sign it needs replacing.
• Noisy tank: An aging water tank will start producing hissing or sizzling sounds.
• The age of your system: If your tank is more than 15 years, it might start showing signs that it needs upgrading.
• Discoloured water is the effect of a rusty tank or corrosion from a leaking system. Regular unit maintenance is recommended to help flush sediment and dirt inside the unit.

Should You Replace Your Hot Water System?

Investing in yearly maintenance is the best way to get the most out of your hot water unit. If your system has been acting up lately and you’re unsure whether to replace it, contact Wilco Plumbing for help.

Our plumbing services can help check your hot water system to identify the problem and replace the unit if necessary. Contact Wilco’s Sydney plumbing experts about our hot water services to get started.