How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard year-round, providing hot showers, clean dishes, and warm laundry. But in many Okanagan homes, it’s often out of sight—and out of mind—until something goes wrong. The good news? With proper maintenance and a few smart upgrades, you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid an untimely breakdown.

Here’s what homeowners in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and Summerland should know about keeping their water heaters running longer and more efficiently.

1. Know Your Type: Tank vs. Tankless

• Traditional tank-style heaters typically last 8–12 years

   

• Tankless (on-demand) units often last 15–20+ years with proper maintenance

   

If your system is near the end of its lifespan or you’re not sure how old it is, consider scheduling an inspection.

2. Flush Your Water Heater Annually

Mineral buildup from hard water is common in the Okanagan and can reduce efficiency or cause premature failure. Flushing your tank once a year helps remove sediment and keeps heating elements running properly.

• If you have a tank, drain a few gallons at a time or fully flush annually

   

• If you have a tankless model, schedule a professional descaling service

   

3. Install a Water Softener (for Hard Water Areas)

Kelowna and nearby regions often have moderately to very hard water, which leads to scale buildup inside tanks and pipes. A softener helps:

• Extend appliance life

   

• Improve energy efficiency

   

• Reduce limescale buildup

   

See Vision’s water treatment solutions

4. Lower the Temperature Setting

Many systems default to 140°F, but 120°F is more than enough for daily use. Lowering the temp:

• Reduces wear on the system

   

• Prevents scalding

   

• Lowers energy bills

   

5. Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod prevents rust inside your tank by attracting corrosion. If it’s worn out, your tank becomes vulnerable. It should be inspected every 2–3 years and replaced if heavily corroded.

6. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

Having a licensed technician inspect and service your water heater helps identify issues before they become costly.

Maintenance checks include:

• Inspecting the burner or heating elements

   

• Checking valves and pressure relief systems

   

• Testing for sediment or rust buildup

   

• Flushing the unit or descaling for tankless systems

   

Is It Time to Upgrade?

If your water heater:

• Is over 10 years old

   

• Requires frequent repairs

   

• Shows signs of rust or water leaks

   

…it may be time to upgrade to a new, energy-efficient model. Explore the best water heaters for BC homes

 Ask Vision about upgrade options and sizing

You may also qualify for rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified equipment through FortisBC.