As was mentioned just turn the power off when you are not going to be there.

I would install a simple sediment filter on the water line they are
inexpensive and do save lots of headache with clogged aerators it will also
tell you if you are sucking sand which does happen.

If you figure the actual age is 10-12 that is still pretty good for a
heater. Electric are less bothered by sediment than gas since gas heats
from the bottom and electric from the one and 2 thirds point on the tank!

if you have the $$ I would probably just go ahead and replace it heaters
don't cost much and it would be cheap insurance since if it is like many
cottages the water heater is in the kitchen or bathroom, with no floor
drain?

Wayne


"Joseph Meehan" wrote in message
...
toller wrote:
The electric water heater in my cottage is 24 years old. It is only has
water in it 5 months a year, and is only turned on about 30 days in those
5
months. I replaced the heating element about 5 years ago, and drain it
yearly (obviously).
It is on a well, and probably has lots of sediment in it; I have cleaned
plenty of tiny stones out of the shower head and sink aerator..

I know water heaters only last 10 or 15 years, but is that years of
having
water in them, turned on, or what?

On the one hand, I hate to spend money on something that is used so
infrequently, but on the other hand, if it starts to leak, it could be a
week or two before I find out!

Local conditions make a great deal of difference. The same WH in one
area might last 3 years and in another 30. I doubt if anyone has a good
idea on the current condition of yours since it is an unusual situation.

I suggest one of two approaches.

My first choice would be an automated system to shut it off (including
water supply) in the event a leak is detected. My second choice would be
to
replace it now.

Since you have a well, maybe it could be possible to shut down the
power
to the well whenever you are not going to be around for while. That would
help protect you from extensive damage for any leak. Then make sure that
you have a catch/drain under you WH.


Thanks.

--
Joseph E. Meehan

26 + 6 = 1 It's Irish Math