: What is the normal life of a gas hot water heater. If the burner unit ever gets submerged in water, (flooding) is it safe to relight and use the heater.The life of a water heater is highly dependent on the water that is supplied to it. I replaced the gas water heater in my parents house a few years ago and it was 31 years old! In some areas the water is so corrosive that water heaters last only a few years. Maintenance can be a big factor as well. Periodically flushing the sediment from your water heater and replacing the anode rod when it wears out will extend the life of a water heater. I dont know about the flooding of a burner, but I would imagine that if you can get the pilot lit and the burner functions ok then eveything should be allright.