The average lifespan of a hot water heater is 8-12 years. After this time, you could start to notice the hot water running out prematurely, rust in your water, a leak, or loud noises. Planning for your water heater to be replaced about every ten years is wise. You can also do yearly or twice yearly maintenance on your water heater by flushing it thoroughly to prolong the heater’s lifespan. This should be done from the time your water heater is 6 mos. to 1 year old and be kept up. Keeping rust, silt and other debris flushed from your water heater will help assure it lasts past its warranty period.