"We pay yearly but we have this is included with our rental property. They are pretty good on most things. We had a hot water heater replaced and they did an excellent job on that. They are very quick on their response. They dont come out here. It is all done on the internet. I just like the idea that one time service charge is so much better than trying to hiring someone to come in. It is more about convenience. It pays for itself."
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.
An average-sized empty water heater weighs around 150 pounds. Tankless water heaters are much lighter, weighing between 10 and 50 pounds. The smaller size and added convenience come at a price, though—tankless water heaters average about twice the price of their traditional counterparts.
Every type of water heater has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding those can help you decide the best type for your situation and budget.
Pros
Safer than gas or propane
Doesn’t require extensive venting systems
Lower upfront costs
Simpler to operate
No pilot light
Easier installation
More efficient heating than gas models
Available as point-of-use (POU) and whole-house units
Cons
Slower to heat water
Longer recovery time
Possibly higher operating costs
Doesn’t work during a power outage
Costs can increase without a 240-volt connection
Price variations arise from size, type (tankless or tank), efficiency grades, and installation complexity, including labor and materials.
The Gregory, SD homeowners’ guide to water heater services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Wondering how much a water heater expansion tank costs? Use this cost guide to get an accurate estimate and learn how to choose the right one for your home.
Who can install a water heater for you? Look to hire a water heater installation pro or a licensed plumber for this job because of the challenges involved.
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.
