In Clearwater, FL, homeowners often call us to ask how to tell how old a water heater is. They’re unsure about the reliability of their hot water supply.
To plan when you might need to replace the unit or schedule maintenance, it’s crucial to know the age of your water heater.
Begin by consulting the documents associated with your water heater’s installation. But if this plumbing work was done by the previous owner of your home, or if you cannot find the paperwork, your next step is to look for the manufacturer’s serial number.
A water heater’s serial number shows you the month and year it was made in a factory.
Why Knowing Your Water Heater’s Age Matters
We advise Clearwater homeowners to know how old their water heater is because units have different lifespans.
- Tank-style units last about 8 to 12 years
- Tankless water heaters may work for as many as 20 years
If you don’t know when you or the previous homeowner installed the water heater, it might already be old enough to qualify for replacement.
As units age, they work less efficiently, driving up power consumption and energy bills. And with age, your water heater is naturally more likely to fail. This is particularly the case if you forget to schedule inspection and maintenance annually.
Locating the Manufacturer’s Label
Check the side of the water heater to find the label from the manufacturer. Homeowners can typically find this label attached near the unit’s energy savings and warning stickers.
Examine the label to note the unit’s manufacturing date, or its serial number.
Decoding the Serial Number by Brand
Manufacturers do not follow a standard approach to creating serial numbers that show the year and month when they build a water heater.
We’re providing details about interpreting various water heater brands’ serial numbers.
A.O. Smith Water Heaters:
A.O. Smith water heater serial numbers use the first two digits to represent the manufacturing year, and the second two digits to indicate the week it was built.
Bradford White Water Heaters:
Bradford White water heaters use an initial letter to show the year of manufacture and a second letter to show the month.
Year:
Units made in 1984 or 2004 are designated with the letter “A.” Those built in 1985 or 2005 get the letter “B.” Note that Bradford White repeats these letters every 20 years.
Month:
In Bradford White water heaters, the letter “A” stands for January and “B” stands for February, etc.
Accordingly, a serial number beginning with “BA” means the water heater was built in January of 1985 or 2005. You may be able to tell the difference between water heaters that are 20 years apart in manufacturing dates! But if you’re not sure, an expert plumber from Benjamin Franklin Plumbing will determine how old your Bradford White water heater is.
Rheem and Ruud Water Heaters:
Clearwater, FL homeowners with Rheem and Ruud water heaters should check the first four digits of the unit’s serial number. They use a MMYY date scheme. For example, “0320” indicates the water heater was put together in March 2020.
Signs Your Water Heater May Be Aging
Be aware of various indications (through performance and physical evidence that your Clearwater water heater is starting to age:
- Water temperature is inconsistent
- Water has a rusty color
- You see water leaking from the water heater, such as puddles at the base
- The unit started making strange rumbling sounds
If any of these signs occur with your water heater, contact the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today for assistance. We’ll let you know if it’s time to replace the unit.
When to Contact a Professional
You don’t want to ignore signs of an aging water heater. Likewise, if you are unable to find the water heater’s serial number or cannot interpret it, get in touch with us.
Our experienced, well-trained technicians offer a full range of services for Clearwater, FL, homeowners. We’ll provide maintenance and inspections, fix your unit or replace it as needed.
And we keep on top of the latest rebates (from government, manufacturers and utilities) to help you get the best deal.
Benefits of Upgrading an Old Water Heater
You’ll definitely benefit by upgrading an aging water heater.
Since the newest units work more efficiently, installing one means your family will use less money heating water for showers, and washing dishes and clothes. Of course, your power bills will decline since you’re using less energy to do the same amount of water- heating work.
Our technicians will go through all the options with you about today’s water heaters, including heat pump water heaters and hybrid electric units that have proven to cut costs.
Is Your Water Heater Nearing Its Last Days? Here’s What to Do
After years of service, you may be facing the day when it’s time to replace your old water heater. Determine its manufacturing date by consulting the documents from when the plumber installed it, or check the serial number on the side of the water heater.
We suggest that you arrange for proactive maintenance without delay, as doing so will help you avoid experiencing an unexpected water heater failure. We’re adept at figuring out if a water heater is past its prime and needs to be replaced.
Don’t Get Caught Without Hot Water – Let’s Check Your Heater Today!
Get in touch with the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today for help addressing your old water heater. We’ll inspect your unit and consult with you about whether it’s time to install a new water heater or if repairs will suffice.
Contact us at your earliest convenience!
FAQs
We often get calls from customers in Clearwater who need help with their water heaters. Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions about water heater maintenance and age.
How can I find the serial number on my water heater?
You can generally find the serial number on a sticker affixed to the side of the water heater. Look for the warning labels and energy guide, as that’s usually where the serial number goes too.
What does it mean if my water heater is making rumbling noises?
Rumbling noises are a sign that dirt, calcium and sediment have significantly built up. The sounds occur as the materials settle on the heater’s bottom, when the water heats up.
Is rusty water always a sign of a failing water heater?
As a rule of thumb, rusty water from your water heater means it has rust inside from constant exposure to water. Our technicians are experienced in determining if a water heater has started to rust and corrode. Give us a call if you suspect this is happening to your unit. We will come over as soon as possible to inspect your water heater for signs of impending failure.
Can I determine the age of my water heater without the serial
number?
Don’t have the documentation from when the water heater was installed? And are you unable to find or interpret the unit’s serial number? You can also check for the manufacturer’s label on the side of the water heater to see if the number is provided there.
What are the benefits of upgrading to a newer water heater model?
You can save money on your future utility bills, since a newer water heater will run efficiently, compared to your aging unit. This is a good way for your family to “go green” and reduce your carbon footprint. Another important benefit is that you’ll enjoy warranty protection for your new unit, in case repairs or replacement is needed.
How often should I have my water heater inspected?
Our technicians suggest that you call us to inspect your Clearwater water heater once per year. We will discover any problems while they’re new and small, and cheaper to take care of.