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There are many issues that can cause cold showers, but the most likely is a problem with your water heater, especially if other fixtures also don’t get hot water. If it’s just your shower not getting hot water, you likely have a broken or damaged shower cartridge. You can replace this yourself or hire a plumber to do the work for you if you’re not comfortable working with plumbing.

Your water heater's age can affect your homeowners' insurance policy. Many policies will ask how old the heater is when you first apply for a policy—and they may make you replace a model that's over 10 years old. 

Even if your policy permits you to have an older heater, it may significantly reduce the amount of protection available. If an older water heater suddenly leaks and causes damage to parts of your home, your policy may not cover it.

The lifespan of a water heater depends on its type, usage, and maintenance schedule. Traditional tank-style water heaters typically last between 8 and 12 years, though the range can be as wide as 6 to 15 years. Within this category, gas models often last 8-12 years, while electric models may last 10-15 years. In contrast, tankless water heaters have a significantly longer lifespan, often lasting up to 20 years or more. Factors like heavy usage, hard water, and sediment buildup can shorten a unit's life. To extend its lifespan, it is crucial to perform regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank annually and scheduling professional inspections. If your unit is over a decade old and shows signs of rust, leaks, strange noises, or inconsistent heating, it is likely time for a replacement.

The chemicals in a water softener can wear down the anode rod in the heater and shorten its life span. However, for most people, the benefits of the softener outweigh this potential drawback.

Have a plumber inspect the anode rod annually for damage, as replacing the anode rod is far less expensive than replacing the entire water heater.