The majority of water heaters are designed to last between 10-15 years. However, nearly three quarters of water heaters have failed by the 13th year, according to the California Energy Commission.
These failures are typically unexpected, because water heaters wear from the inside out, and often result in insurance claims due to water damage.
Fortunately, there are ways to help extend the life of your water heater and keep your home safe from water heater related issues.
Sacrificial Anode Rods
Conventional water heaters are glass-lined and use a sacrificial anode rod to “slow” the deterioration process down.
This rod is made of magnesium or aluminum that’s formed around a steel core wire and is screwed into the top of the tank.
When two metals are physically connected in water, one will corrode away to protect the other.
When the water heater tank is filled with water, an electrochemical process begins whereby sacrificial anodes are consumed to protect a small amount of exposed steel.
Replacing an anode rod before it fails can slow down corrosion inside the tank and extend the life of the water heater.
The Issue is Sedementary
Another issue for conventional water heaters is sediment build-up. Heating up water can cause minerals, such as calcium carbonate, to precipitate out. Buildup of this sediment slows heat transfer and overheats the bottom of the tank.
In the case of an electric water heater, sediment can bury the lower element, causing it to burn out. In order to avoid this issue and extend the life of the appliance, water heaters should be drained twice a year to help clear the sediment from the system.
