Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us? On average, a water heater lasts 8 to 12 years. Maybe even more than that if you've ...

Turn off the shutoff valve to the gas line. Be sure to turn the valve one-quarter turn so that the handle is at a right angle to the pipe, as in this photo. Turn off the control valve. Remove the ...