Your Water Heater Might Be a Time Bomb
When was the last time you thought about your water heater? For most homeowners, the answer is “never” — until it stops working or, worse, bursts. Water heater failures are one of the leading causes of water damage inside homes, and the repair costs can be staggering.
At Square 1 Home Inspections, we regularly find issues with water heaters that could have been avoided with simple maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:
Water Heaters Don’t Last Forever
Most tank-style water heaters have a lifespan of 8–12 years. After that, internal parts start to corrode, and the risk of leaks or catastrophic failure, increases dramatically.
Check the age: The manufacturing date is on the label. If it’s pushing a decade, start planning for replacement.
Rust and Corrosion = Trouble Ahead
Rust around the tank base, fittings, or the temperature/pressure relief valve means it’s only a matter of time before a leak develops. Corrosion inside the tank often goes unnoticed until the bottom gives out, flooding the home.
Pressure Relief Valve Is a Safety Essential
This small valve prevents your water heater from exploding under extreme pressure. But if it’s stuck or leaking, it can’t do its job. We test this during inspections to ensure it functions correctly.
DRAIN IT TO SAve it
Sediment buildup in the tank reduces efficiency and shortens its life. Flushing the tank once or twice a year can help — but few homeowners do it.
LOCATION MATTERS
Is your water heater in the garage? Closet? Attic? If it’s in a spot where a leak could damage flooring or ceilings, consider a drain pan with a discharge line. We see far too many attic installations in Florida that lack these safeguards.
Don’t Let a Small Tank Create a Big Mess
Water heaters are “out of sight, out of mind” until they fail, and when they do, they fail big. A simple check during your home inspection can prevent thousands in damage and give you peace of mind.
Contact us today to book your inspection!
