When moving into a rental property, you may find an old water heater already installed. Water heaters have a lifespan of approximately 10 years, and units past their service life are prone to malfunctions. This article explains when to replace a water heater, how repair costs are allocated, what to check when it breaks down, and how to maintain it properly.
What Is the Expected Lifespan of a Water Heater?
The standard designed service life of a water heater is 10 years. Once manufacturers discontinue parts production, repairs become impossible, so it is advisable to consider inspection or replacement around the 10-year mark. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Japan Gas Appliances Inspection Association also distribute a "Water Heater 10-Year Replacement" leaflet.
When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?
- More than 10 years have passed since installation
- Frequent issues such as unusual noises, strange odors, deformation, or water leaks
- Symptoms such as no hot water or smoke coming from the unit
What Should You Do When a Breakdown Occurs?
Contact the Property Management Company
For rental properties, contact the property management company first. Avoid contacting a repair service on your own as a tenant. However, in emergencies such as gas leaks or burst pipes, tenants may request repairs directly under the revised Civil Code.
Cases Where You Can Handle It Yourself
Some issues can be resolved by restarting the power, checking the gas shutoff valve, or checking the water shutoff valve. If an error code is displayed, consult the owner's manual to identify the issue.
Who Is Responsible for Repair and Replacement Costs?
If the breakdown is due to age-related deterioration or natural failure, the landlord is responsible. If the tenant intentionally caused the damage, the tenant bears the cost. If a 24-hour call center is available, check the contact information in your lease agreement or important disclosure documents.
What Are the Risks of Continuing to Use an Old Water Heater?
- Incomplete combustion: Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to clogged exhaust vents
- Electric shock from leakage: Rainwater infiltrating the unit due to age-related deterioration
- Fire and explosion: Accidents caused by gas leaks due to degraded safety devices
What Should You Check When Your Water Heater Breaks Down?
- Does water come out of all faucets? (to determine if it is a plumbing issue)
- Is the gas stove working? (to check for gas meter abnormalities)
- Is the water heater switch turned off?
- Is the hot water temperature set too low?
- Check the content of any error codes displayed
- Check for water leaks from pipes or the unit itself
What Symptoms Appear Before a Water Heater Reaches the End of Its Life?
- Water is lukewarm despite the set temperature
- The reheating function does not work
- Unusual noises (such as "bang," "beep," or "whoosh")
- Error codes appear frequently
- Water leaks are occurring
- A burning smell is present
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What should I do about bathing while waiting for a water heater replacement?
A. Options include visiting a nearby public bath or hotel day-use bath, boiling water with a kettle, or using dry shampoo and body wipe sheets.
Q. Who is responsible for repair costs if a leftover water heater breaks down?
A. If the unit was left behind by a previous tenant, it is highly likely that the landlord or property management company will not cover the repair costs. Check the important disclosure documents to confirm whether it is classified as original equipment.
Q. What easy maintenance can I do on my own?
A. Perform the following regularly: wipe down the unit exterior (using a neutral detergent), clean the drain filter, and clear the area around the exhaust vent.
