Where to look: Rating plate on the side of the tank jacket. Read it from the outside. If the label isn’t visible without removing a panel, don’t open the unit; use the installation paperwork or ask the installer.
Decode a Whirlpool serial number
How to read a Whirlpool serial number
YYWW… The first two digits are the year and the next two the production week: YYWW. Example 9746… = week 46 of 1997.
| Example serial | How it reads | Built |
|---|---|---|
1512A123456 | 15 = 2015, 12 = week 12 (March) | Week 12 of 2015 (around March) |
- The Energy Trust of Oregon decoder (opens in a new tab) lists Whirlpool among the brands American Water Heater makes, and gives American’s format as a two-digit year followed by a two-digit week.
- The middle digits are a week, not a month. A Whirlpool serial beginning 1512 was built in March 2015, not December.
- Whirlpool is a brand name on these heaters, not the factory. For parts and warranty, the maker shown on the rating plate is the one to contact.
Format source: Energy Trust of Oregon: water heater serial number decoder (PDF) (opens in a new tab); also Waypoint Inspection: Whirlpool water heater age (opens in a new tab).
What to do with the date
- Check the warranty. Enter the serial number in the American Water Heater warranty verification (opens in a new tab). Coverage depends on the model and the build or installation date.
- Weigh repair against replacement. Age is one factor; leaks from the tank, rusty hot water and repeated failures matter more. See how long water heaters last and the repair-or-replace notes on the main decoder page.
- Troubleshoot by brand. Our Whirlpool guides cover codes, lights, leaks and no-hot-water problems.
Common questions
Who do I call about a Whirlpool water heater?
The manufacturer named on the rating plate, usually American Water Heater, not Whirlpool appliance support. Have the model and serial number ready.
Is my Whirlpool water heater still under warranty?
Enter the serial number in American Water Heater’s warranty verification tool. Coverage depends on the model and the date it was built or installed.
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