Water heater serial number reference
Kenmore Water Heater Age: Serial Number Guide
Match a Kenmore water-heater serial number to its manufacturer, estimate the age, and understand what the date means for a buyer.
Kenmore water heaters were produced by more than one manufacturer, so the serial-number format matters. Match the complete pattern on the tank’s data label before decoding the manufacture date.
Where to find the Kenmore serial number
Look for the manufacturer data sticker on the side of the tank. Photograph the full label and record the model and serial numbers separately. The label may also identify the actual manufacturer, tank capacity, fuel or electrical ratings, and certification information.
Common Kenmore serial-number styles
Style 1: B01231232
On some letter-led formats, the first letter identifies the month and the following digits contain the year code. In this example, B commonly indicates February. Confirm the year arrangement using the manufacturer shown on the label.
Style 2: 123456789
For some all-numeric formats, the first two digits indicate the year and the next two indicate the production week. Confirm that the week is between 01 and 53 and that the resulting date fits the equipment.
Style 3: 1234A123456
This mixed format may follow a manufacturer-specific date code similar to certain A. O. Smith-family serial numbers. Use the complete model, serial number, and manufacturer name for confirmation rather than applying the numeric rule automatically.
Month-letter reference
| Code | Month | Code | Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | January | G | July |
| B | February | H | August |
| C | March | J | September |
| D | April | K | October |
| E | May | L | November |
| F | June | M | December |
How to confirm a Kenmore water-heater age
- Photograph the complete data label.
- Identify the manufacturer named on the label.
- Match the serial number’s letters, digits, and length.
- Compare the decoded date with permits, invoices, warranty records, and the tank’s apparent age.
- Contact the manufacturer or a plumbing professional when the code remains unclear.
How long does a tank water heater last?
Many conventional tank water heaters provide roughly 8 to 12 years of service, but actual life varies with water quality, maintenance, usage, corrosion, installation, temperature settings, and leak history.
Age is a planning factor, not proof of present condition. A tank in an interior location may create greater damage if it leaks, so location and visible protection also matter.
What inspectors look for
- Visible leakage, corrosion, or staining.
- Accessible water connections and shutoff valve.
- Temperature-and-pressure relief valve and discharge piping.
- Combustion venting on fuel-fired equipment.
- Drain pan and drainage where applicable.
- Accessible electrical or gas connections.
Kenmore water-heater age questions
Should a 15-year-old water heater be replaced?
Age increases planning urgency, but condition, location, corrosion, repair history, and the consequences of leakage should guide the decision.
Can the model number determine age?
The serial number and manufacturer information are normally more useful. Record the model number because it identifies the specific tank.
Does a 4-point inspection include the water heater?
Yes. The water heater is documented within the plumbing section when an insurer requests a 4-point inspection. GGR provides insurance inspections only in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
Kenmore age checklist
- Photograph the entire data label.
- Identify the actual manufacturer.
- Record model and serial numbers separately.
- Use only the date rule matching the full format.
- Evaluate age together with visible condition and location.
Continue learning
Related water-heater guides
Inspect with confidence
