We were building a new house and thought I would like to have this installed in my house. My son is a plumber so the installation was a no brainer for him. Although my wife was upset that I made the decision to get this model without her approval first, she loves it. We have 5 grandchildren, 3 children with spouses and when we have family get togethers we can all shower and not run out of water. Where it is hung the room does not get hot and no more paying for gas to heat water and waiting for it to be used. Not sure of it's lifespan, been using it for about a year now and I would definitely replace it if needed with the same model.