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Learning, Sharing, and Teaching => Real Estate and Landlording => Topic started by: shanaling on June 10, 2018, 10:14:05 PM

Title: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: shanaling on June 10, 2018, 10:14:05 PM
Hello,

I have a 10-year old electric 40-gallon water heater, and this morning we found that we have no hot water. The plumber quoted us $400, but won't charge if he cannot fix it. I looked up the price for a comparable electric water heater and it turned out to be around $400 not including installation cost.

Given that it's already 10 years old, would you repair or replace?

Thanks!
Title: Re: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: Fishindude on June 11, 2018, 07:27:30 AM
Replace.  The typical lifespan of most water heaters is 10-15 years.  And newer ones are more efficient.

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Title: Re: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: MaikoTsumi on June 11, 2018, 07:34:29 AM
If your unit isn't cracked, then replacing element(s) will only cost $15-$20.  It's a DIY and is simple as hell. You can extend the life of your unit by doing a flush and replace the sacrifice rod at the same time, even doubling the lifespan.
Title: Re: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: CowboyAndIndian on June 11, 2018, 10:30:15 AM
If your unit isn't cracked, then replacing element(s) will only cost $15-$20.  It's a DIY and is simple as hell. You can extend the life of your unit by doing a flush and replace the sacrifice rod at the same time, even doubling the lifespan.

I like the idea of replacing the sacrificial anode. But since the water heater is already 10 years old, and most sacrificial anodes are done around the 4 or 5-year mark, I believe that this water heater is nearing the end of its life.

So, my recommendation is to replace it. Every 4 or 5 years, replace the sacrificial anode. Your next water heater should get you 20+ years.
Title: Re: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: Grogounet on June 12, 2018, 01:37:47 AM
I would say replace with a best efficiency one you can find.
Title: Re: Replace or repair water heater?
Post by: Lmoot on June 12, 2018, 03:58:12 AM
Replace. You’re guaranteed to have to deal with it again in the near future, when prices of water heaters might go up.