While actual life expectancy varies based on the water heater, hardness of the water, and maintenance schedule, hard water will likely reduce the life expectancy of the water heater by about two years.
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more. Traditional water heaters with standing water tanks can last around 10 to 15 years before you notice signs of age.
Soft water can actually corrode the water heater anode faster. When the anode wears down, the corrosive elements will move on to the tank. So if left alone, a water softener system can actually shorten the lifespan of a water heater.
Hard water contains a lot of calcium, also called limescale. Although limescale is not harmful to humans, when heated it tends to adhere to surfaces and form scale deposits. In the long run, limescale will clog your water pipes and build up in your water heater and home appliances.
You can remove calcium buildup by flushing your water heater and treating it with a descaling solution. The best way to prevent calcium buildup from occurring is with a salt-based water softener.
Whether your water heater is gas-fired, oil-fired, or electric, if it was exposed to flood water, the unit should be replaced. In a gas unit, valves and controls will likely corrode. In an electric unit, the thermostat and controls will likely corrode.
Hard water can cause spotting and leave a cloudy white residue of mineral salts on your glasses and silverware. The residue of mineral salts can also build up on every surface of your dishwasher leading to rust and the eventual failure of expensive parts like pumps and heating elements.
But hard water has a long list of problems attached to it. Disadvantages of hardness include the formation of soap scum, cloud-like stains, clogged pipes, dry skin and hair, faded and brittle laundry, and corrosion and deteriorated appliances.
A softener WILL reduce calcium and limescale buildup inside pipes and on fixtures and will reduce the sediment buildup inside a water heater which can potentially extend the life of the heater. It can also reduce the usage of detergents and provide other intangible quality of life benefits.
Many homeowners wonder “How often should a hot water heater be replaced?” In a typical situation, you should expect your water heater to last about ten years.
However, when used and maintained appropriately, it can even last for 15+ years. The tank has an anode rod that attracts corrosive elements in water, protecting its interior lining from corrosion. After using the tank water heater for long (about ten years), the rod gets eaten away and no longer works effectively.
If you're experiencing inconsistent hot water or if you're unable to maintain a constant temperature, your hot water heater is likely nearing the end of its life. An ideal temperature for hot water is between 120 and 140 degrees, and the water should consistently be hot.
If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.
A water heater making strange noises could be a sign that the unit is beginning to fail. These sounds may include popping, banging, or even rumbling. Hot water heater noises are usually caused by sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank. When this happens, it can cause the unit to overheat and eventually fail.
Hard water problems are often the cause of dry skin and hair after bathing, and preventing soap from lathering on your skin. The dissolved minerals are also primarily responsible for the build-up of scale in pipes and water heaters, causing numerous problems in the laundry, kitchen, and bath.
Long-term consumption of hard water can cause kidney dysfunction, which may lead to the other diseases such as cerebrovascular disease, diabetes and others.
Hard water will contain higher levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, while soft water will contain higher levels of sodium (salt). Both soft and hard water are considered safe to drink, but there are benefits and downsides to consuming each kind of water on a daily basis.
They also gradually lead to limescale buildup, which, when it occurs within pipes, reduces water pressure and flow, and only gets worse over time. Hard water also negatively impacts the efficiency and lifespan of any appliance that requires water for operation.
Hard water is not a health hazard.
The Council further states that in some instances, where dissolved calcium and magnesium are very high, water could be a major contributor of calcium and magnesium to the diet. Much research has been done on the relationship between water hardness and cardiovascular disease mortality.
The quality of your water may also affect the lifespan of your water heater. If a water heater is ten years or older, you should start thinking about replacing it. At the least, you should keep a closer eye on it. For example, if you see leaks around the base of your water heater, it's probably time to replace it.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Flush your water heater every six months or so. If you have harder water, or water that contains more minerals, you may want to flush it more often. If you leave town, change your water heater to its vacation setting. The pilot light will stay on, but the water will not be heated.
You should have your water heater serviced at least once per year. The most important part of water heater maintenance is flushing the tank. If you don't flush it, sediment will build up inside your water heater's tank.