While there are several different types of water heaters, which we will discuss in more detail on their own respective pages, atmospheric or conventionally vented water heaters are the most common type of water heater currently installed in most homes.
Atmospheric water heaters are quite simple and economical to run. While these types of hot water heaters are not as energy efficient as other models, such as power vented water heaters or tankless, on-demand water heaters, they do a good job at heating and storing hot water for the home's use. Depending on the home's requirements or application, they can also be quite a bit more economical to purchase and install.
The average life expectancy of a conventional water heater is about 10 years. That said, factors such as water hardness can, and usually do, shorten the 10-year life expectancy.