Estimated life of top quality galvanized chain?

[Calypso52]

Is there a consensus on the life of galvanized chain? Our chain, which I purchased from Ideal Windlass and believe was top quality (5/16" HT) is a rusty mess after 7 years of light use. I can imagine there are just too many variables to predict the life of chain: ventilation of chain locker, amount of use, bottom on which the chain lies, strain placed on chain in gypsy, etc.

Do any of you go to extra lengths to extend the life of your chain? Like rinsing it in fresh water at the end of the season? How often have you needed to replace your chain (and how did you use it?)

I understand that regalvanizing is probably a bad idea (weakens chain, hard to find someone to do it and never good as new.) Any other thoughts? What to do with old chain other than take it to the metal recycler? Thanks.