How long is the lifespan of a water heater in Austin? (low cost, plumbers)

[yam]

I've read that water heaters typically last for 10-12 years but that it varies widely based on local water chemistry. So, what's the typical lifetime of a water heater in this city?

[centralaustinite]

6 to 10 years is what plumbers tell me is typical in the city due to our very hard water.

[woodinvilleguy]

they will last longer if you drain them once a year to get the sediment out of the tank. At least that is what my dad has always told me.

[yam]

Thanks. I tried to inspect the anode rod a couple of years ago. I figured if the rod was ok, the heater was ok. And if the rod wasn't ok, it would be wise to replace it rather than waiting for it to deteriorate completely.

But I couldn't get the darn thing out. Seems like it's glued in place or something. Guess all I can do it drain it periodically and keep checking the drain pan for any evidence of leaks every few months.

[hoffdano]

If you put hard water in the water heater its life will be shortened considerably. Calcium will build up on the heater elements rapidly and they will fail, possibly as soon as two years. You can replace them at low cost. But the calcium sediment is continuously building up inside the tank.

My water heater started with hard water and about three years later added a water softener. But I know the water heater may die soon (about eight years old now) because I replaced the elements once, have drained it several times, and I can't unscrew the elements now.