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April 9, 2008
Time to replace my water heater?
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.
Comments
Two cents - every plumber I talked to says they last 10 years and then it can go at any time. I'd rather get a new one than push it. And there should be some efficiency savings from updating.
Posted by: guest at April 9, 2008 4:33 PM
We currently heat our hot water directly through our oil fueled boiler and having been thinking about putting in a gas fueled water tank that we would use during the 6 months of the year that the boiler could be turned off. Right now, the boiler stays on all year. We think that puts uneeded stress on the boiler. since the boiler stays on we also think it may make the house somewhat hotter in summer.
Posted by: guest at April 9, 2008 4:47 PM
Just did this last month. My AO Smith 50-gallon gave out after 25 years. I got three estimates and bought an indirect Peerless 37-gallon heater from Keyspan--$2600. Indirect allows smaller storage with its stronger output.
Too soon to say whether I saved anything but everything is running hot.
Posted by: guest at April 9, 2008 6:34 PM
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