Let’s face it—most of us don’t think twice about our water heaters until we step into an unexpectedly cold shower. One minute everything’s fine, and the next, you're googling “how long do water heaters last” with shampoo still in your hair.
At Ackerman Plumbing, we’ve had this conversation with hundreds of Coralville homeowners. So we put together this guide to help you understand how long water heaters last, what causes them to fail early, and how to spot the warning signs before you lose your hot water for good.
So, How Long Does a Water Heater Last?
Most traditional tank-style water heaters last about 8 to 10 years. That estimate depends on a few key factors:
- The quality of your water (hard water shortens lifespan)
- How well the system was installed
- Whether or not it's been regularly maintained
- The overall quality of the unit (some brands and models simply last longer)
If you have a tankless water heater, you may get 15 to 20 years of service—provided it’s properly installed and maintained.
What’s the #1 Thing That Kills Water Heaters?
Sediment buildup.
Over time, minerals in your water, like calcium and magnesium—settle at the bottom of your tank. This layer of sediment insulates the water from the heating element, making your system work harder and overheat. That can cause:
- Higher energy bills
- Early system failure
- Internal tank damage
Regular flushing removes this sediment—but many homeowners don’t realize this maintenance step even exists. If it’s been years since your unit was flushed, it may already be under stress.
Signs Your Water Heater Might Be Failing
You don’t have to wait for a total breakdown to take action. Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- Inconsistent or fluctuating water temperature
- Rust-colored water (or a metallic taste)
- Hot water runs out faster than usual
- Strange noises: banging, rumbling, or popping
- The unit is 8+ years old and hasn’t had regular maintenance
- Leaks or puddles near the base of the tank
And of course, if it stops producing hot water altogether, you’re probably due for a replacement.
Is It Better to Repair or Replace?
Here’s our general rule of thumb. Consider repair if:
- The unit is under 6 years old
- The issue is minor (like a thermostat or heating element)
Consider replacement if:
- The tank is 10+ years old
- It’s leaking
- There’s visible rust or corrosion
- You’re constantly running out of hot water
In many cases, repairing an old or inefficient system is just throwing money at a problem that will be back in a few months.
How to Make Your Water Heater Last Longer
Want to stretch the lifespan of your current unit? A little maintenance goes a long way:
- Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment
- Have the anode rod inspected annually (it helps prevent rust)
- Install a water softener if you live in a hard water area
- Schedule regular maintenance with a licensed plumber
These small tasks can add years of reliable performance and help you avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Need Honest Advice About Your Water Heater?
At Ackerman Plumbing, we’re not here to sell you something you don’t need. We’ve helped homeowners all across Coralville decide whether a water heater repair or replacement makes more sense—and we’ll always give you the straightforward answer.
No pressure. No upsells. Just honest guidance and reliable service.
Don’t Get Stuck Without Hot Water
If your water heater is acting up—or creeping past the 8- to 10-year mark—it’s worth having it inspected now, before you’re dealing with a full-blown cold-shower crisis.
Call Ackerman Plumbing or schedule service online today. We’re proud to serve Coralville and surrounding communities with plumbing that’s done right—the first time.