My old water heater finally gave out after 22 years

I was sure it was maybe 15 years old, but I found the original install date on a tag in the closet. It was from 2002, which means it ran for 22 years here in Amarillo. That's way longer than the 10-12 years they usually say you'll get. Has anyone else had an appliance in their house last that much longer than expected?

3 comments

3 Comments

dixon.james1d ago

Found the install date on a tag? That's some next level homeowner detective work. I just guess based on how ugly the thing is. Twenty two years in Amarillo with that hard water is a miracle. That heater was built different.

the_sam1d ago

Come on, that's just luck. Most old heaters are a ticking time bomb no matter the brand.

the_sam18h ago

So you're just going by looks then? That's a bold move... but honestly, how do you even guess? Like, is there a certain shade of rust or a specific dent pattern that screams "replace me now" to you? I'd be worried I'd get it totally wrong and end up with a cold shower at the worst time.