How long do gas hot water heaters last?

[Bobblehead]

Just wondering. My house was built in '87. I can't see anything that says if the water heater is original or not. There is a water stain on the cement floor by it, but haven't seen any moisture. The mark may be very old, but I'm wondering if I should be proactive, and look into replacing it before anything "bad" happens.

[Sample00]

varies depending on the condition of the water..minerals etc.
I have found most to last about 10 years..some more..some less

anything longer than 10 years and ya start to take your chances*L*

[Shazam]

They last right until the warranty expires

But seriously, 10 years is considered the norm. Calgary's water is considered hard so it really takes a toll on water heaters.

If you're looking to replace one, consider the new on-demand hot water systems.

[photon]

Yeah, I wish I had gone with the on demand one for my new house.

[MoneyGuy]

what ^ said.

Old guys like me know this stuff. I wouldn't even buy a water heater (hot water heater is a pleonasm - "hot" is unnecessary). When I have to replace again, I'll buy an on-demand system where the water is heated as required. I had a hot-water tank give out once. Not fun. You'll save money over the long run.

[Fuzzy McGillicuddy]

You can also extend the life of the heater if you keep the temperature at a lower setting.

[Buff]

I think my heater is well over 10 years old. It was in my house when I bought the house, and I've owned the house for 4 years. It may even be 20 years old! I've often wondered if I should replace it even though it works like a dream. My parents had two hot water heaters sprink a leak. They had to tear out carpet in the hallway the first time. The 2nd time wasn't as bad b/c they replaced the carpet with lino, but they did some mopping up to do.