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I currently have a 40 Gallon Sears Kenmore water heater that was manufactured in 1996. It still works, but I am wondering if it’s time to say goodbye. By the way, this should support 4 people with 2 bathrooms. What are your thoughts as to whether I should keep the old one going until it goes or preemptively replace it beforehand? In my basement, some water on the floor wouldn’t spell the end of the world as the floor in the area is mostly dirt and the basement is typically pretty dry.

Given that I am not in an emergency situation, I figured it was time to look at my options. I’ll throw out the possibility of tankless due to the venting requirements. I guess that leaves a traditional water heater of some sort or an indirect water heater in conjunction with my Burnham gas boiler. What is involved with converting my boiler to heat my hot water? If I decide to go the traditional water heater route, I wouldn’t mind spending a little bit more for a more efficient (maybe smaller high recovery?) unit which will save some $ and have a smaller environmental footprint. I’m concerned about the environmental impact more than the cost, but cost is obviously a factor as well.

Thanks for any input.