Whirlpool Water Heater Age: Serial Number Guide

A Whirlpool water heater’s manufacture date is commonly encoded in the first four digits of the serial number on the tank’s data label. The first two digits indicate the year and the next two indicate the production week.

Quick Whirlpool water-heater age lookup

1. Find the complete serial number on the tank’s data label.
2. Read the first two digits as the year.
3. Read the next two digits as the production week, from 01 through 53.
4. Compare the result with installation records and the water heater’s apparent age.
5. Confirm an unusual format with the manufacturer.

Where to find the Whirlpool data label

Look on the side of the tank for the manufacturer data sticker. It may list the model and serial numbers, tank capacity, fuel or electrical ratings, manufacturer location, and certification information. Photograph the complete label before transcribing the numbers.

Two common Whirlpool serial-number styles

Style 1: 02481084563

• 02 = year of manufacture
• 48 = production week
• Remaining digits = production sequence

Style 2: 0248T1084563

This style uses the same leading year-and-week code but includes a letter later in the serial number. The first four digits remain the key date code when the complete format matches.

Manufacture date versus installation date

The serial number normally identifies manufacture, not installation. A water heater may remain in inventory before being installed. Permits, invoices, and warranty records are better evidence of the installation date.

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, installation, usage, corrosion, temperature settings, and leak history.

Age is a planning factor—not proof of present condition. Older tanks deserve closer attention because a leak can cause significant property damage.

What inspectors look for

• Visible leakage, corrosion, or staining.
• Condition of accessible supply connections and shutoff valve.
• Temperature-and-pressure relief valve and visible discharge piping.
• Combustion venting on fuel-fired equipment.
• Drain pan and drainage where applicable.
• Accessible electrical or gas connections.

Whirlpool water-heater age questions

Can the model number determine age?

The serial number and supporting records are normally more useful. Record the model number because it identifies the exact unit.

Should an older water heater be replaced immediately?

Not based on age alone. Consider condition, leaks, corrosion, repair history, efficiency, location, and the consequences of a tank failure.

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.

Water-heater age checklist

• Photograph the complete data label.
• Record model and serial numbers separately.
• Decode year and week only when the format matches.
• Check permits, invoices, and warranty records.
• Evaluate age together with visible condition and location.