Seven signs your hot water system needs replacing.
Electric storage tanks last 8-12 years, gas storage 8-12 years, gas continuous flow 15-20 years, solar 15-20 years, heat pump 10-15 years.
Sign 1: Water not getting hot enough indicating deteriorating heating elements.
Sign 2: Rusty or discoloured water meaning the anode rod is consumed and the tank is corroding internally.
Sign 3: Strange noises from sediment buildup.
Sign 4: Visible leaks or moisture around the tank indicating internal corrosion.
Sign 5: Increasing energy bills from reduced efficiency.
Sign 6: Frequent repairs needed more than twice per year.
Sign 7: System is simply past its expected lifespan.
Repair if under 6 years old with a single component failure under $400.
Replace if over 10 years old with multiple issues or tank corrosion..