Plumbing · Water Heaters
Water Heaters — real answers.
Recovery time, flushing, replacement age, tankless vs. tank.
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How long should a water heater last in Washington?
Standard tank water heaters in the PNW last 8–12 years. Beyond year 12, the risk of a burst tank doubles every year. If yours is over 10, check for a manufacture date on the label, put a leak sensor under it, and start budgeting for replacement — a burst tank is 40 gallons on your floor in under two minutes.
Why do I run out of hot water so fast, and can it be fixed?
In tank water heaters the top reason is a failed lower heating element (electric) or a burned-out dip tube (any fuel type). Both are cheap fixes if the tank is under 8 years old. If it's older than 8, spend the money on a right-sized replacement instead — you'll fix the symptom and buy back another decade.
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