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You have more options for water heaters than ever before. The best one for your home depends on your hot water usage and budget. Some of the more common types of water heaters are the conventional gas heater, a heat pump water heater, or a tankless heater for smaller homes or those with less water demands. Some uncommon types are solar and point-of-use systems. Some homes may have a combination of two units, such as a large heat pump heater and a backup point-of-use system.

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.

The average water heater holds between 40 and 60 gallons, but the exact amount of water that comes out during draining will depend on your unit’s capacity. The amount of time it takes to drain a water heater averages from 10 to 30 minutes.

While a water heater explosion is rare, it is a serious danger. Be aware of these critical warning signs:

• Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell: This is a major red flag, especially for gas water heaters. It can indicate a gas leak, which could ignite and cause an explosion.

• Leaking Pressure Valve: If the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is leaking, it may not be able to properly regulate internal pressure, creating a risk of bursting.

• Shaking or Rumbling: Loud rumbling or shaking from the tank can be a sign of extreme pressure buildup.

• Excessive Heat: If the exterior of the water heater feels unusually hot to the touch, the unit may be overheating dangerously.

• Rust-Colored Water: This can be a symptom of severe internal corrosion that compromises the tank's integrity.

If you notice any of these signs, especially a gas smell, you must act immediately. Shut off the gas supply to the water heater and call a professional plumber right away to prevent a potential disaster.