betterhomebudget

Replacement planner

Roofs, furnaces, air conditioners and water heaters wear out on a fairly predictable schedule. Save a little each month and the replacement is a plan, not an emergency.

Get the replacement cost from a local quote; prices vary widely by region and model.

Tank water heater

$75 a month

Typical lifespan
8–12 yrs
Plan for it in
2 yrs

We plan for the low end of the lifespan range, so the money is ready early. If it's already past that, we use one year.

Typical lifespans

System or applianceTypical lifespan
Asphalt shingle roof20–30 years
Gas furnace15–25 years
Central air conditioner12–17 years
Heat pump10–15 years
Tank water heater8–12 years
Tankless water heater15–20 years
Refrigerator10–15 years
Washing machine10–13 years
Dishwasher9–12 years
Garage door opener10–15 years
Exterior paint5–10 years
Wood deck15–20 years

Typical ranges only. Quality, installation, climate and maintenance all change how long things last. Check labels or inspection reports for install dates.