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The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.

A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

If your system is not vented properly, you could experience what’s called backdrafting. Backdrafting is when your ventilation system isn’t working as it should, and instead of releasing gases outside, they get trapped inside your home. 

Gas and propane water heaters create a few types of combustion gases, but the most dangerous is carbon monoxide. If there’s too much build-up of these gases inside your home, it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Traditional gas or electric water heaters last an average of six to 11 years. However, with excellent maintenance, they can last up to 15 years. Heat pump water heaters, on the other hand, last an average of between 12 and 15 years and potentially longer with proper maintenance. In both cases, your home's water quality can be a determining factor regarding the lifespan of your water heater.