Inverter Heat Pumps, Tankless & Boilers
How Old Is My Bosch?
Type the serial number from the rating label on your Bosch water heater, furnace or AC to see when it was made and how much of its typical 15-year life is left.
Try an example:
Where to find the serial number on a Bosch
On a tank water heater, the rating label is on the side of the tank, usually near the gas valve or the upper electrical cover. Look for "SERIAL NO." or "S/N". On an outdoor AC or heat pump, the rating plate is on the side of the cabinet near the copper lines. On a furnace, remove the upper front door; the label is on the inside wall or the door itself.
Tip: in a dark basement or closet, take a photo of the label with your phone's flash on and zoom in on the photo.
How to read a Bosch serial number
FD date code
Used 1990–today · varies between models, confirm with the label date
Find the 4 digits after "FD". Add 20 to the first two digits to get the year (96 + 20 = 2016); the last two digits are the month. FD 9612 = December 2016. Units built after 2010 usually also print the date on the rating label.
Example: FD 9612 → December 2016
Common replacement parts for Bosch
Always match the part to the model number on your rating label, and have gas or refrigerant work done by a licensed technician.
- Bosch 87083002120 Water Flow Sensor (Tankless Gas)Check price on Amazon
- Bosch 87010000270 Temperature Sensor NTCCheck price on Amazon
Cheap ways to avoid water damage
Water leak alarm
Sits on the floor next to the tank and sounds a siren at the first drop of water.
See leak alarms on AmazonWater heater drain pan
Catches small leaks and can be piped to a drain, which buys you time before a tank fails.
See drain pans on Amazon
Common questions about Bosch equipment
Where do I locate the data plate on a Bosch Greentherm tankless water heater?
On Bosch tankless gas heaters, look on the underside of the unit near the water pipes or on the right side outer steel casing.
How long do Bosch IDS inverter heat pumps last?
Bosch inverter heat pumps feature variable capacity inverter compressors typically lasting 15 to 20 years when serviced biannually.
How long does a Bosch water heater, furnace or AC last?
About 15 years on average. Units that get yearly maintenance often last longer; units in hard-water areas, coastal air or unconditioned spaces often fail sooner.
Is the serial number the same as the model number?
No. The model number describes the product line, size and options. The serial number identifies your exact unit and contains the manufacture date. Both are printed on the same rating label.
How accurate is this age estimate?
The date comes from the published serial number formats for each brand. It is the factory date, not the installation date, and some formats repeat every 10 or 20 years. If the label shows a printed MFG. DATE, that date wins.