On Nov 18, 4:21*pm, Geek Dad wrote:
It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater.

We can get it replaced, no worries financially. Bradford White, $800
installed.

I just want to know how can you tell how long it will continue to
last?

The HVAC guys that replaced our central air/heating system said we
should consider getting it replaced. Our plumber agreed.

Of course, being Mr. Cynical that I am, they probably need the
business.

Our basement is finished, so we can't really let it go for too long.
So there's that too.

Our realtor says those things can last for a long time. Apparently
longer than 14 years.

So she says one thing, the guys that get paid installing these things
say another.

My wife is now worried that it will go any minute. I try to tell her
to remain calm and tell her that's exactly what the HVAC and plumber
want her to be - paranoid.

Just get 'er done?

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There are many boilers that are 30 years and more working perfectly
and you can get spares for them.
Look at the cost. When your boiler was made they probably claimed it
was 80% efficent
Modern ones are 90% or more efficient.
But divide the running cost of the existing boiler, into the cost of
the new one and you can see
it will take a lifetime to save anything-if indeed you can.
You can be sure these people are looking for business.