How Old Is My Bradford White Water Heater?

Are you wondering how old your Bradford White water heater is? Bradford White water heaters encode the production date in a unique serial number, making it possible to determine the exact manufacturing year and month. Understanding how to read this serial number can help you decide whether to repair or replace your Bradford White water heater. Read on to discover how to decipher Bradford White serial numbers, verify your water heater’s age, and explore tips to reduce operating costs and maximize your water heater’s efficiency.

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A Guide to Determining the Age of Your Bradford White Water Heater

Determining your Bradford White water heater’s age is essential for maintenance and replacement planning. You can find this information by decoding the serial number on your unit. The serial number is usually attached to a yellow label on the side or back of your water heater. The first two characters represent the year and month of manufacture. The rest of the serial number is a unique sequence identifying the production order.

Here’s a Bradford White Water Heater key:

The First Character (Year)

A = 2004 or 2024
B = 2005 or 2025
C = 2006 or 2026
D = 2007 or 2027
E = 2008 or 2028
F = 2009 or 2029
G = 2010 or 2030
H = 2011 or 2031
J = 2012 or 2032
K = 2013 or 2033
L = 2014 or 2034
M = 2015 or 2035
N = 2016 or 2036
P = 2017 or 2037
S = 2018 or 2038
T = 2019 or 2039
W = 2020 or 2040
X = 2021 or 2041
Y = 2022 or 2042
Z = 2023 or 2043

The Second Character (Month)

A = January
B = February
C = March
D = April
E = May
F = June
G = July
H = August
J = September
K = October
L = November
M = December

Bradford White uses a 20-year letter cycle, so if your serial number begins with AG, your water heater’s manufacturing date is July 2004 or 2024. To determine the correct year, consider the overall condition of the unit and any available maintenance records. For example, a water heater in good condition in a 2025-built home likely dates to 2024, while an older, rusty unit may point to 2004 and need replacement.

The Significance of Knowing Your Water Heater’s Age

Knowing your water heater’s age is essential for effective home maintenance and planning. Bradford White water heaters typically last 10 to 15 years. An older unit may become less efficient, leading to higher energy bills and a greater risk of leaks or sudden failures. Understanding your water heater’s age empowers you to make proactive choices, such as scheduling regular check-ups or planning a timely replacement. This information helps ensure you have an uninterrupted supply of hot water.

Saving Tips and Energy Efficiency Practices for Bradford White Water Heaters

To cut down on energy costs and keep your Bradford White water heater running smoothly, here are a few tips that can make a big difference:

Lower the thermostat: Set your thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save energy while still having enough hot water for daily use.
Insulate the tank and pipes: This helps reduce heat loss and maintain your water heater temperature more efficiently.
Flush the tank annually: An annual flush removes sediment buildup, which improves performance and prevents long-term damage.
Install low-flow fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucets use less hot water, which lightens the load on your water heater.
Use vacation mode: When away for a while, use vacation mode to minimize energy consumption while keeping the system active.

Following these tips helps your Bradford White water heater operate efficiently, reducing costs and extending its life span.

FAQs Regarding Bradford White Water Heaters

Here are some common questions that you may have about your Bradford White water heater, covering essential topics such as maintenance, troubleshooting, and replacement indicators. Understanding how to care for your water heater enhances its efficiency and ensures a steady hot water supply for your home.

How Often Should I Flush My Bradford White Water Heater?

You can flush your Bradford White water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup. This action helps the unit run efficiently and prolongs its life span by preventing clogs and internal corrosion. Regular flushing also ensures consistent water temperatures and steady water flow throughout your home.

What’s the Process for Resetting a Bradford White Water Heater?

To reset your Bradford White water heater, start by locating the reset button, typically positioned on the upper thermostat. You can toggle the breaker switch on and off to reset. If it doesn’t respond or continues to have issues, it may be best to contact our Allied Plumbing and Heating Supply team for further troubleshooting.

How Can You Tell When It’s Time To Replace a Water Heater?

If you notice signs such as a lack of hot water, rust-colored water, or unusual noises from your water heater, it may be time for a replacement. Additionally, older units tend to become less efficient, which can lead to increased energy bills. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, replacing your water heater could be a more cost-effective solution.

What Makes Bradford White Water Heaters a Top Choice for Plumbers?

Plumbers often choose Bradford White water heaters for their durability, quality components, and industry-leading warranties. Bradford White designs its water heaters for reliability and energy efficiency, making them a favorite for long-term use. Its commitment to safety and innovation also contributes to its popularity among professionals.

Shop for Bradford White Water Heaters at Allied Plumbing and Heating Supply in Chicago

Discover the perfect Bradford White water heater for your home at our Allied Plumbing and Heating Supply store in Chicago, Illinois. Our knowledgeable team will help you find a model that matches your household’s hot water needs and energy-saving goals, ensuring reliable performance and long-lasting quality. With a range of options suited for any home size or budget, you’ll find what you need for comfort and efficiency. Contact us or visit our shop today to explore our selection. We’re ready to exceed your expectations.