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February 6, 2008
Water heater, When to replace
My water heater is at least 10 years old. It has no signs of leakage and no visible rust. However, I frequently hear what sounds like marbles rumbling around inside it. Has anyone ever experienced this? Is this a bad sign?
Comments
When you ordered this WH did you specify marbles or no marbles?
Posted by: guest at February 6, 2008 1:03 PM
Our boiler repair guy said water heaters typically last 15 years. So do the math and replace it BEFORE it dies on you. Because guaranteed it will die when you need it most and/or on a major holiday
Posted by: guest at February 6, 2008 3:35 PM
I'm not sure, but I believe some water heaters will collect sediment at the bottom and it can be emptied out. I think I heard that somewhere, but I could be imagining it.
Posted by: rh at February 6, 2008 3:49 PM
ill say if its not broke dont fix it.
Posted by: guest at February 6, 2008 9:34 PM
I personally paranoid about WH breaking since Ive seen the damage that can be done when they burst. Do you have a plumber you trust that could take a look at it?
Posted by: Mrs. Limestone at February 7, 2008 11:30 AM
I just replaced mine. My research estimates about 7-10 years lifespan. Mine was 8. No leaks but when it was removed the entire interior was rusted to paper thickness. I was about 10 minutes away from a total blowout. It might be a good idea to replace it sooner than later.
Posted by: guest at February 7, 2008 12:49 PM
Replace it and get a tankless! More expensive, but one of the best purchases I have ever made. More efficient (you aren't keeping gallons upon gallons of water hot constantly) and you never run out of hot water. The only caveat is if you have people who take really long showers (until you are out of hot water) this might increase your energy usage since you would never run out of hot water.... Worth looking into. Oh yeah tankless heaters can last 20 years or more.
Posted by: guest at February 7, 2008 1:03 PM
doesn't a tankless require running the boiler at some level all year round or is there a stand alone like a hot water heater?
Posted by: brownstone89 at February 8, 2008 4:58 PM
i've been told rumbling means you need it cleaned out, or it might die soon.
might leak a little while dying then bam
Posted by: brownstone89 at March 20, 2008 5:47 AM
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