A conventional water heater (one with a storage tank) typically lasts about 10 years – but that number can vary depending on the quality of your equipment, how well it was installed and maintained, the chemistry of your municipal or well water, and more.
If your water heater is nearing its second decade, you’re probably due for a replacement – and if you’re finding leaks and rust around your tank, you’re probably overdue for one.
So how do you begin your search for a new water heater? A good place to start is with your old one.
You can learn most of what you need to know about your water heater from the nameplate on its side, where you will usually find the unit’s tank capacity, insulation R-value, model, and serial number. If you have an electric water heater, the nameplate will also list the wattage capacity and voltage of the heating elements.
As for your future water heater, you will want to know its:
One option to consider is switching to a tankless water heater, which heats water on demand rather than storing it for later use.
These propane-powered units are a little more expensive up front, but you’ll get unlimited hot water, save space, and cut your energy bills by 30 percent or more – enough to offset the additional cost of the unit in just a few years. Tankless water heaters last longer, too – typically almost twice as long as a conventional water heater.
Ready to replace your water heater? We can help! Contact Hocon today for a FREE, no obligation estimate on a water heater installation in Connecticut!
