Electric & Gas Water Heaters
How Old Is My Whirlpool?
Type the serial number from the rating label on your Whirlpool water heater to see when it was made and how much of its typical 10-year life is left.
Try an example:
Where to find the serial number on a Whirlpool
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".
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 Whirlpool serial number
Year + week (modern)
Used 2004–today · varies between models, confirm with the label date
Digits 1-2 are the year and digits 3-4 are the week of the year (01-52).
Example: 1942104928 → October 2019 (week 42)
Common replacement parts for Whirlpool
Always match the part to the model number on your rating label, and have gas or refrigerant work done by a licensed technician.
- Whirlpool 100108683 Flame Sensor & Igniter AssemblyCheck price on Amazon
- Whirlpool WH4500 Low-Watt Density Heating Element (4500W 240V)Check 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 Whirlpool equipment
Who makes Whirlpool water heaters sold at Lowe's?
Whirlpool water heaters sold at retail stores like Lowe's are manufactured under licensing by A.O. Smith (American Water Heater Company division).
What is the tank warranty on a Whirlpool water heater?
Most residential Whirlpool water heaters carry a 6-year, 9-year, or 12-year tank warranty depending on whether it is a standard or premium model.
How long does a Whirlpool water heater last?
About 10 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.