How Long Do Water Heaters Last in Florida Homes?

Water heaters are one of those systems we take for granted—until they stop working. In Florida, where humidity, water quality, and high usage can take a toll, knowing how long your water heater is likely to last can help you avoid surprise breakdowns.

At All Around Water Services, we help homeowners in North Fort Myers and Cape Coral stay ahead of water heater issues with maintenance, repair, and replacement services.

Average Lifespan of a Water Heater

Most traditional tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years, depending on several factors:

• Type of unit (gas, electric, tankless)

• Water quality (hardness, sediment, etc.)

• Frequency of use and demand

• Maintenance and flushing schedule

• Installation quality and ventilation

Tankless water heaters can last longer—typically 15 to 20 years—but only with regular upkeep.

Factors That Shorten Lifespan

Florida’s water conditions can be tough on water heaters. Common lifespan reducers include:

• Hard water and mineral buildup

• Sediment settling at the bottom of the tank

• Corrosive water with low pH

• High humidity and salt air near coastal areas

• Lack of annual flushing or maintenance

If your water heater hasn't been serviced in years, it could be running on borrowed time.

Warning Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing

• Water doesn’t get as hot as it used to

• Rust-colored water or metallic taste

• Rumbling, banging, or popping sounds from the tank

• Water pooling near the base of the heater

• Inconsistent water temperature

• A system that's over 10 years old with declining performance

These signs often indicate sediment buildup, corrosion, or heating element failure.

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

• Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment

• Check and replace the anode rod every 3 to 5 years

• Install a water softener if you have hard water

• Schedule annual inspections by a licensed technician

• Make sure your heater is properly ventilated and secured

We offer all these services as part of our water heater maintenance packages.

Who This Is For

• Florida homeowners with aging or noisy water heaters

• Residents dealing with hot water shortages

• Families planning for system upgrades or replacements

• Anyone who wants to prevent water damage from leaks or failure

• Property managers maintaining rental units or vacation homes

Stay Warm, Stay Ready

Don’t wait for your water heater to fail in the middle of a busy week. With regular care and the right timing, you can upgrade before problems start.

Schedule a water heater inspection at allaroundwater.com

All Around Water Services—keeping your water hot and your home comfortable.