When it comes time to replace your old water heater, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a 6 year or 12 year model. Water heaters typically last between 6-12 years on average before needing replacement, but there are pros and cons to both lifespan options. In this article, we’ll compare 6 year vs 12 year water heaters to help you determine which is the better choice for your home and budget long-term.

6 Year vs 12 Year Water Heater Comparison

How Do 6 Year and 12 Year Water Heaters Differ?

There are a few key differences between 6 and 12 year models:

Warranty Length

The warranty length is the most obvious difference. Six year water heaters come with a 6 year warranty, while 12 year models come with a 12 year warranty. This matches up with the expected lifespan. During the warranty period, the manufacturer will repair or replace defective parts should something stop working properly. Once the original warranty expires, repairs and replacements are your responsibility.

Tank Thickness

Twelve year models have thicker tank walls and additional anode rods. The anode rod helps protect the inner tank from corrosion. Thicker steel and more anode rods mean the tank itself lasts longer before rusting or leaking issues occur. Six year tanks walls are thinner and only have a single anode rod.

Energy Efficiency

In general, 12 year water heaters tend to be slightly more energy efficient. They have higher Energy Factor (EF) ratings, meaning they use less energy overall while heating water to the desired temperature. Even a small EF improvement leads to noticeable energy savings over time.

Cost

Not surprisingly, 12 year water heaters have a higher upfront purchase price. You’re paying more for the longer warranty, thicker tank, extra anode rod(s) and increased energy efficiency. However, they can actually save money in the long run since they don’t need replacing as often.

Now that we’ve compared some key points, let’s look at the pros and cons of each option in more detail.

6 Year Water Heater Pros and Cons

Below are some of the most notable advantages and disadvantages of choosing a standard 6 year water heater for your home.

Pros

• Lower upfront cost – The shorter warranty and thinner tank means 6 year models are cheaper to purchase upfront. This makes them more budget-friendly.
• Quick replacement – A 6 year water heater will only need replacing once a decade. If you don’t mind periodic replacement, this can be convenient.
• Good for rentals – The lower upfront cost and quicker replacement timeline make 6 year heaters a good choice for rental properties.

Cons

• More replacements – You’ll need to purchase and install new water heaters more often – at least twice as much over a 20 year period.
• Risk of leaks or rust – The thinner tank has a higher chance of developing leaks or rust issues as it ages. Proper maintenance helps mitigate some of the risk.
• Shorter warranty – The warranty expires after 6 years. Repair and replacement costs are higher once the original warranty coverage ends.

12 Year Water Heater Pros and Cons

Here are the notable pros and cons for investing in a longer-lasting 12 year water heater:

Pros

• Longer warranty – The 12 year warranty provides coverage for twice as long as a standard model. This protects against repair and replacement costs.
• Thicker tank – With extra anode rods and thicker steel walls, the tank itself is more corrosion resistant and less prone to rust or leaks.
• Higher efficiency – Increased Energy Factor ratings mean 12 year models waste less energy heating water. This saves energy costs over time.
• Fewer replacements – A single water heater can easily last the full 12 years, meaning fewer lifetime replacements.

Cons

• Higher upfront cost – You’ll pay more when purchasing the water heater due to the higher-quality materials and efficiency upgrades.
• Overbuying – If you move before the 12 year mark, you’ve overbought for your needs and won’t see the full payoff.

As you can see, the pros and cons really depend on your situation. Next we’ll look at the factors to help determine if a 6 or 12 year heater is right for you.

Key Factors To Consider When Choosing Between 6 or 12 Year Models

When deciding between a standard 6 year or upgraded 12 year water heater for your home, there are several important factors to keep in mind:

How Long You Plan To Stay In Your Home

If you plan to live in your current home for more than 6-7 years, the longer lifespan and warranty of a 12 year heater will pay off. You’ll recoup the higher upfront investment over time through energy savings and fewer replacements. However, if you may move sooner, a 6 year heater likely makes more sense for your situation.

Your Water Usage Needs

Do you have high hot water usage with multiple showers, laundry, and dishwashing daily? The thicker tank and anode rods of a 12 year model will hold up better. For a smaller household with lighter water heating needs, a 6 year heater may be sufficient.

Energy Efficiency

The higher Energy Factor of 12 year heaters make them better choices if energy savings are a priority. Their efficiency features will help lower your utility bills. Opt for a 6 year model if energy costs are not a major concern.

Budget

A 12 year heater costs more upfront but saves long-term through fewer replacements and energy savings. A 6 year heater is cheaper upfront but has a shorter warranty and requires earlier replacing. Make sure to consider lifetime costs, not just purchase price.

Home Value

A higher quality 12 year heater can add value to your home at resale. And fewer repairs means fewer headaches for future owners as well. If trying to maximize resale value, invest in a reliable 12 year model.

Warranty importance

Do you want the peace of mind of a longer 12 year warranty? Or are you comfortable with only a 6 year warranty? Consider how valuable the longer coverage period is to your situation.

As you can see, many factors come into play when deciding between these two popular water heater lifespans. Keep your specific needs and priorities in mind. Next, we’ll provide some general recommendations on when to consider each option.

Recommendations on 6 Year vs 12 Year Water Heaters

Based on the comparison above, here are some general recommendations on which water heater lifespan typically makes sense for different homeowners:

For most homeowners – 12 Year

The longer lifespan, thicker tank, better efficiency and longer warranty of 12 year models make them the best choice for most homeowners who plan to stay put for at least 6-7 years. The higher upfront cost pays off over time through energy savings and fewer replacements.

For rentals/flips – 6 Year

Since you likely won’t own rental properties or flips long, a 6 year heater takes care of hot water needs without overbuying. The lower upfront cost also allows landlords and flippers to keep expenses down.

For tight budgets – 6 Year

If having the lowest purchase price possible is your main priority, a 6 year water heater lets you get an essential appliance at the most budget-friendly price point. Just be ready to replace it more often.

For high efficiency – 12 Year

Those looking for maximum energy efficiency will get the best return on investment from a 12 year model. Their higher Energy Factor ratings lead to noticeable energy savings year after year.

For busy families – 12 Year

Large families with high daily hot water demand will benefit from the thicker tank and durable construction of a 12 year heater. The extra anode rods protect against corrosion issues over the long haul.

While these recommendations cover many cases, you still want to weigh all the factors covered earlier. Next, let’s look at the installation considerations for each lifespan option.

Installation and Replacement Considerations

Proper installation and periodic maintenance helps ensure your water heater lasts its full lifespan with minimal repairs or issues. Here are some things to keep in mind:

6 Year Installation

• Have a plumber size your 6 year unit properly based on household size and peak demand. An undersized heater will lead to problems faster.
• Read warranty terms so you know what’s covered. Register the warranty as well.
• Ask about tank flush options to remove sediment buildup.
• Schedule an annual checkup to inspect fittings and anode rod.

12 Year Installation

• Take care to install the heavier unit properly, with adequate support and bracing. This prevents tank stress.
• Review warranty coverage in detail so you understand length and any limitations.
• Develop a maintenance routine for sediment flushing and anode rod replacement around year 6-7.
• Verify energy efficiency by checking Energy Factor rating before purchase.

Replacement Preparation

• Evaluate repair vs replacement if leaks or other issues occur just out of warranty. Repairs can buy you time.
• When buying a replacement, check latest technology. Newer models are even more efficient.
• Disconnect and drain old unit. Be prepared with large shop vac for any water still inside.
• Take steps to prevent leaks/damage such as placing drain pans underneath.

A bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way for either lifespan option. Finally, let’s look at cost considerations when budgeting for a new water heater.

Cost Comparison of 6 Year vs 12 Year Models

When comparing costs, be sure to look at both purchase price and long term expenditures. Here’s an overview:

Purchase Price

• 6 year heaters range from $400 on the very low end, to $1000 or more for larger capacity or higher efficiency units. Most fall in the $500 to $800 range before installation.
• 12 year heaters start around $800 and go up to $2200 for top of the line whole home tankless units with smart controls. Expect to pay $1000 to $1500 for a standard 12 year tank model.

Installation Cost

• **Install typically adds $200-$500 to the total project cost. This covers labor, fittings, pipes, permits, haul away of old unit, etc.
• Electric models tend to be simpler, gas line installations more complex. Got a plumber you trust? Get an estimate.

Energy Costs

• 6 year models have an Energy Factor around .60. This equates to about $250/year in energy costs for water heating.
• 12 year models are 5-15% more efficient, with an EF around .65 to .70. This drops annual costs to roughly $225.
• Over 20 years you could save $500+ on energy alone with a 12 year heater.

Lifetime Cost

• 6 year heaters cost around $1,100 to $1,500 for the unit, installation and disposal twice over an 18-20 year period.
• 12 year heaters average $1,500 to $2,500 over that same period, including initial install and just one future replacement.
• While more expensive upfront, 12 year heaters save $500 to $1,500 long-term through fewer replacements and energy savings.

As you can see, the overall lifetime cost difference is smaller than you may think thanks to energy and replacement savings from higher quality 12 year models.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much hot water do 6 and 12 year heaters produce?

The lifespan doesn’t affect hot water output. Correctly sizing your heater to your household’s peak demand ensures sufficient hot water.

Which brands make the most reliable water heaters?

Top brands like Rheem, Bradford White, AO Smith and Rinnai consistently earn high marks for reliability and customer satisfaction. Check warranties too.

Is it difficult to install a water heater myself?

DIY installation is possible but challenging. Hiring a professional ensures proper sizing, venting, gas or electric connections, and safety.

How often should water heaters be flushed?

For optimal performance and lifespan, flush tank-style heaters annually to remove sediment buildup. Consult your manual.

What temperature should my water heater be set at?

120°F is recommended. Lower temperatures save energy. Higher increases risk of scalding. Test with a thermometer.

How can I improve my existing water heater’s efficiency?

Take short showers, install heat traps on pipes, insulate tanks, fix drafty ducts, and lower the thermostat temperature.

What do different warranty terms mean?

Labor warranties cover repair work costs. Parts warranties cover defective parts replacement only. Lifetime means the original owner only.

When should I replace rather than repair a water heater?

Replace once repair costs exceed 50% of a comparable new heater’s price. Also if leaks can’t be fixed or parts are unavailable.

Conclusion

When choosing between a standard 6 year or premium 12 year residential water heater, there are good reasons to consider both options. Six year models have lower upfront costs, making them a budget-friendly choice for basic hot water needs. However, 12 year heaters offer longer warranties, better energy efficiency, thicker and more corrosion resistant tanks, and require fewer lifetime replacements.

For most homeowners who plan to stay in their house longer than 6-7 years, investing in a reliable 12 year water heater is typically the better option. The higher initial price pays for itself over time through energy savings and increased years before replacement is needed. Plus, you get the added peace of mind of a longer warranty should any defects arise.

However, 6 year heaters can make sense for rentals, flips, tight budgets or those who may move again before the 12 year mark. Just be prepared for more frequent replacements and fewer years of warranty coverage. Proper sizing, installation and maintenance is crucial to maximize lifespan for either option.

When shopping for a new unit, carefully compare total lifetime costs, not just upfront price. Weigh your budget, efficiency goals, hot water needs and length of ownership to make the optimal 6 year vs 12 year water heater decision for your home.