Remembering dates can be quite challenging, especially for homeowners when there are so many things to remember in regard to your home. However, knowing the age of your water heater is essential, particularly when it comes to planning for its future. A water heater that has been in service for a considerable time might be approaching the end of its lifespan. So, if you are unaware of your own water heater’s age, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise when it officially retires, leaving you with no choice but to find a replacement. It’s best to be prepared for your water heater to go out rather than suddenly having to deal with a unit that you had no idea was about to give out on you. 

To find how old your water heater is, follow these steps from Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain to help determine its age: 

HOW LONG DO WATER HEATERS GENERALLY LAST? 

On average, a well-maintained gas water heater can endure anywhere from 8 to 12 years, while a well-maintained electric water heater can have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Naturally, the service life depends on the care and maintenance the unit has received over the years. 

HOW CAN YOU DECODE HOW OLD YOUR WATER HEATER IS? 

Locating the manufacture date will unveil your unit’s age. Keep in mind that most water heater models do not have the manufacture date clearly labeled on the unit. In other words, you are unlikely to find the words “manufacture date” easily visible. However, the manufacture date is typically coded within the serial number, and its location varies depending on the brand and model. 

Step 1 – Find the Serial Number by: 

  • Checking the product label on the water heater to find the serial number.  
  • Referring to the user manual, it may contain information on where to find the serial number. 
  • Visiting the manufacturer’s website and checking their support or product information section for guidance. 

Step 2: Locate the Serial Number: 

Once you have the serial number, the next step is to decode it to find the manufacture date. While different manufacturers use varying formats for their serial numbers, most include the date of manufacture embedded within it. 

The easiest approach is to check the manufacturer’s website for a decoding tool dedicated to the manufacture date. If that’s not available, you can use your online investigative skills by searching your water heater’s brand, serial number, and the words “manufacture date” in your favorite search engine. Numerous sites should offer detailed instructions on how to decode the manufacture date for your specific model. 

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEED A NEW WATER HEATER? 

Congratulations! Now that you’ve uncovered the age of your water heater, are you considering a replacement soon? Choosing a replacement involves several considerations, and we’re here to help lighten your load! We can answer any questions you may have and even discuss financing options with you. Don’t hesitate—give us a call today! 

Call Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 764-3381, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!