Home |
Search |
Today's Posts |
|
Home Repair (alt.home.repair) For all homeowners and DIYers with many experienced tradesmen. Solve your toughest home fix-it problems. |
Reply |
|
LinkBack | Thread Tools | Display Modes |
#1
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
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? |
#2
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
"Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference. |
#3
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:23*am, "Bob F" wrote:
"Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? |
#4
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:23�am, "Bob F" wrote:
"Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - ask neighbors how long theres lasted. Ours is 8 years old and due for replacement, around here they always fail by 10. new heater will be far more energy efficent. you might consider installing a drip pan or other arrangement so future failure cant damage finiushed space. a buddy built a low block wall, and added drain line to sewer to keep leak water visible but confined to non finished space, of course his baSEMENT IS BELOW GROUND LEVEL his tank leaked while he was on 2 week vacation, filled the basement with water that finally spilled out front door. drbris had floated over and clogged basement sewer drain. did about 70 grand in damage, new furnace, main service and wiring, basement finished totalled, ruined hardwood floors upstairs, new kitchen cabinets, mold from all that moisture had started growing his home looked awesome when complete, his family lived in hotel for 2 months while repairs went on. a exteded stay place. really code shoul require heater catch basins, and ones for washing mnachines upstaIRS homeowners insurance required and paid for the heater catch basin.... |
#5
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
"Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? As an electrician when I see an electrical problem or hazard at a customer's house I will point it out due to concerns for their safety. It doesn't matter to me if I correct the problem or if they have someone else do it. Two professionals gave you their opinion and you think that they just need the business. You could wait until the water heater fails and then you will be dealing with potential flooding, no hot water and no time to shop around for a good price. I would start getting some quotes now and get it done. |
#6
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:25*am, Geek Dad wrote:
On Nov 18, 11:23*am, "Bob F" wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: *we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help?- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - Water heaters have a sacrificial anode which is made of less noble metal, typically magnesium I think, so that it will slowly dissolve via electrolysis, instead of the metal tank. It's the same idea as putting zinc on the underwater metal of a boat. The anode is a long rod that screws into the tank from the top. It has a hex head, which I believe fits a 1 1/8" socket. You can check the anode every few years and determine how fast it is being used up, then replace it when appropriate. I don't have actual enough experience, nor have I ever seen any test data to be able to tell you if it in fact it does extend the life of the tank significantly. Also, it helps protect against corrosion to some extent, but there are more than one failure mechanisms at work. With a finished basement and a 14 year old gas heater, if it were me, I'd replace it. |
#7
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 10:21*am, Geek Dad wrote:
It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater. We can get it replaced, no worries financially. Bradford White, $800 installed. I just want to know how can you tell how long it will continue to last? The HVAC guys that replaced our central air/heating system said we should consider getting it replaced. Our plumber agreed. Of course, being Mr. Cynical that I am, they probably need the business. Our basement is finished, so we can't really let it go for too long. So there's that too. Our realtor says those things can last for a long time. Apparently longer than 14 years. So she says one thing, the guys that get paid installing these things say another. My wife is now worried that it will go any minute. I try to tell her to remain calm and tell her that's exactly what the HVAC and plumber want her to be - paranoid. Just get 'er done? AO smith is a top brand not HD crap, I had a commercial AO unit last 20+ years and I put in a AO condensing tank. But water quality, the temp you heat it to, and maintenance mean everything. The anode rod is likely gone. How long do neighbors heaters last, some areas of bad water get only 5-8 years. Now consider money, your tank was likely 50-55 E.F. new. EF-Energy Factor, is how many cents per dollar it costs to heat water, 50EF is 50c per dollar is wasted. Most new stuff if 55-60 EF, a few at 65-70, and condensing are near 80-85EF. Your old unit could be 35EF with a foot of scale in the bottom, a pilot light and inefficent burner. So you can go from now 55 EF - 94 EF on condensing tankless, [ if you can, and if you can live with the limitations] . A finished basement should have a pan under the tank that has a hose that goes to a drain and an Auto Leak Sensing Water Mains Shutoff. If it was me, tomorrow I would get the Auto Main shutoff device and research tanks starting at www.energystar.gov EF ratings are posted. I have tank, condensing AO Tank, and tankless. For my house I like Tankless best, paying 6- 10$ a month in summer to do gas laundry, cook, and heat water is great, but tank-condensing tank for a family has its benefits. What do you pay for Ng in summer months. |
#8
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:21*am, Geek Dad wrote:
It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater. Water heaters rarely, if ever, fail catastrophically. You will notice a small drip-type leak long before it becomes a spurt or flood, unless you are not home for weeks at a time. Mine was 30 years old when I replaced it this last summer. It didn't leak, it simply didn't keep the water hot, and I finally got sick of cold showers. |
#9
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:41:25 -0500, "John Grabowski"
wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? As an electrician when I see an electrical problem or hazard at a customer's house I will point it out due to concerns for their safety. It doesn't matter to me if I correct the problem or if they have someone else do it. Two professionals gave you their opinion and you think that they just need the business. You could wait until the water heater fails and then you will be dealing with potential flooding, no hot water and no time to shop around for a good price. I would start getting some quotes now and get it done. If you are putting in a water heater in the USA and want one that will outlast you, put in a Vaughn Stone Lined. Only available in Electric as far as I know, but the hydrastone lined tanks are not only extremely long-lived, but also quite efficient. You can realistically expect them to last 50 years. |
#10
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
"Geek Dad" wrote in message ... On Nov 18, 11:23 am, "Bob F" wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? ************************************************** ****** http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/pag...er-anodes.html http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&r...&start=10&sa=N |
#11
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 12:34*pm, wrote:
On Nov 18, 11:21*am, Geek Dad wrote: It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater. Water heaters rarely, if ever, fail catastrophically. You will notice a small drip-type leak long before it becomes a spurt or flood, unless you are not home for weeks at a time. I would have to disagree with that. When my last one went, the first indication anything was wrong was when I was awakened in the middle of the night by a very low buzzing or humming sound. It was being caused by the water flow from a failed tank as it moved through the cold water pipes. The stream was about half the size of a pencil, but clearly enough that with a finished basement, it could easily cause major damage before being noticed. Prior to that, the tank looked perfectly fine and was about 12 years old. Also, a friend had his go while away on a business trip. When he came back, the basement floor was flooded. Again, there was no warning from a drip or small leak. Clearly you can have serious damage from a water heater without having a warning from a drip first, and that damage can certainly occur within a day. Just the typical unfinished basement, with boxes of crap around, etc would present quite a headache with not all that much water. Mine was 30 years old when I replaced it this last summer. It didn't leak, it simply didn't keep the water hot, and I finally got sick of cold showers. |
#12
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 12:18*pm, ransley wrote:
On Nov 18, 10:21*am, Geek Dad wrote: It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater. We can get it replaced, no worries financially. Bradford White, $800 installed. I just want to know how can you tell how long it will continue to last? The HVAC guys that replaced our central air/heating system said we should consider getting it replaced. Our plumber agreed. Of course, being Mr. Cynical that I am, they probably need the business. Our basement is finished, so we can't really let it go for too long. So there's that too. Our realtor says those things can last for a long time. Apparently longer than 14 years. So she says one thing, the guys that get paid installing these things say another. My wife is now worried that it will go any minute. I try to tell her to remain calm and tell her that's exactly what the HVAC and plumber want her to be - paranoid. Just get 'er done? * AO smith is a top brand not HD crap, I had a commercial AO unit last 20+ years and I put in a AO condensing tank. But water quality, the temp you heat it to, and maintenance mean everything. The anode rod is likely gone. How long do neighbors heaters last, some areas of bad water get only 5-8 years. Now consider money, your tank was likely 50-55 E.F. new. EF-Energy Factor, is how many cents per dollar it costs to heat water, 50EF is 50c per dollar is wasted. Most new stuff if 55-60 EF, a few at 65-70, and condensing are near 80-85EF. Your old unit could be 35EF with a foot of scale in the bottom, a pilot light and inefficent burner. So you can go from now 55 EF - 94 EF on condensing tankless, [ if you can, and if you can live with the limitations] . * *A finished basement should have a pan under the tank that has a hose that goes to a drain and an Auto Leak Sensing Water Mains Shutoff. If it was me, tomorrow I would get the Auto Main shutoff device and research tanks starting atwww.energystar.gov*EF ratings are posted. I have tank, condensing AO Tank, and tankless. For my house I like Tankless best, paying 6- 10$ a month in summer to do gas laundry, cook, and heat water is great, but tank-condensing tank for a family has its benefits. What do you pay for Ng in summer months.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - AO smith is a top brand not HD crap, I had a commercial AO unit last 20+ years Let's make sure we compare bananas to bananas. Odds are his unit is not a commercial AO, so let's not build his hopes up. While AO may not be HD crap, I moved into a house with a 3 YO AO which began to leak at the bottom less than 2 years later. I replaced it under warranty. Since you only get the rest of the original warranty on the replacement unit (I wonder what they know that we don't) when the new one began to spray water into the flue 6 years later, I was on my own. I did not replace it with an AO. |
#13
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
I have to agree with John.
Although you might get another 10 years from the heater, the inconvenience of cold showers, and calling a plumber to come out immediately, and possibly flooding, are consequences that outweigh the cost of a new heater. Also, I hear it gets very cold in PA. However, my last heater lasted 18 years, and just quit heating the water. It was gas. I'm not a professional electrician or plumber, but I did replace my own water heater last time. It isn't too difficult. "John Grabowski" wrote in message ... "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? As an electrician when I see an electrical problem or hazard at a customer's house I will point it out due to concerns for their safety. It doesn't matter to me if I correct the problem or if they have someone else do it. Two professionals gave you their opinion and you think that they just need the business. You could wait until the water heater fails and then you will be dealing with potential flooding, no hot water and no time to shop around for a good price. I would start getting some quotes now and get it done. |
#14
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 1:21*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? FWIW. Here in eastern Canada; since our first house in 1960 our hot water tanks have lasted an average of nine years; on both well water and municipal water supplies, in an area where the water is reputed to be somewhat acidic. Last one we replaced in December 2006 at a cost under $250 total, doing the work ourselves. Our most recent foam insulated replacement, rated as 40 US gallon with two 3500 watt heaters and top and bottom thermostats, manufactured in the USA, had identical size and location of connections to the one replaced, which was leaking. We did also replace the pressure relief valve which was quite old, cost included. A cost of $800 seems rather high by our measurement; however we did buy and pick up the replacement, bring it home (in our pickup) get it down into our basement, install and then take the old one to the metal recyclers next trip into town. Thinking back this is the first time any of our tank replacements has cost anything significantly over $200; plus own labour. Regarding failure, don't agonise just replace it. Generally takes a couple hours maximum once you got the new one home. You'll be showering from the new one by the time you have cleaned up after installing and had cup of coffe or tea! |
#15
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 1:53*pm, wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:34*pm, wrote: On Nov 18, 11:21*am, Geek Dad wrote: It's an A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater. Water heaters rarely, if ever, fail catastrophically. You will notice a small drip-type leak long before it becomes a spurt or flood, unless you are not home for weeks at a time. I would have to disagree with that. * When my last one went, the first indication anything was wrong was when I was awakened in the middle of the night by a very low buzzing or humming sound. * It was being caused by the water flow from a failed tank as it moved through the cold water pipes. * *The stream was about half the size of a pencil, but clearly enough that with a finished basement, it could easily cause major damage before being noticed. *Prior to that, the tank looked perfectly fine and was about 12 years old. Also, a friend had his go while away on a business trip. *When he came back, the basement floor was flooded. *Again, there was no warning from a drip or small leak. *Clearly you can have serious damage from a water heater without having a warning from a drip first, and that damage can certainly occur within a day. *Just the typical unfinished basement, with boxes of crap around, etc would present quite a headache with not all that much water. Mine was 30 years old when I replaced it this last summer. It didn't leak, it simply didn't keep the water hot, and I finally got sick of cold showers.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - One night we were dry, next morning it was a flood, ours was not dripping before it went. |
#16
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
Geek Dad wrote:
Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? I'm in your general area and with my well water, electric water heaters only last 6-7 years. When mine have failed, they just start leaking but none catastrophically to flood basement. I would only replace if it fails but as others suggest, have some way to catch water if need be. |
#17
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
Geek Dad wrote:
On Nov 18, 11:23 am, "Bob F" wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? An anode is a metal road that extends into the water from the top of the tank. It can keep the inside of the tank from rusting. On some tanks they are easy for a homeowner to replace. It probably needs a good electrical bond to the tank. I don't know if that precludes using teflon tape to prevent leaks. If I contemplated replacing an anode, I'd want to know if it was likely to be needed for people on my water system, how difficult the job would be with my tank, and what was the best way to seal the joint. When I replaced a water heater on a wood floor, I put it in a plastic tub two inches deep. That way I was able to notice leaks before the floor got wet. It also keeps the floor dry during maintenance and repair procedures. I don't know if putting your tank into a shallow tub would be too much trouble. |
#18
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
E Z Peaces wrote:
Geek Dad wrote: On Nov 18, 11:23 am, "Bob F" wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? An anode is a metal road that extends into the water from the top of the tank. It can keep the inside of the tank from rusting. On some tanks they are easy for a homeowner to replace. It probably needs a good electrical bond to the tank. I don't know if that precludes using teflon tape to prevent leaks. If I contemplated replacing an anode, I'd want to know if it was likely to be needed for people on my water system, how difficult the job would be with my tank, and what was the best way to seal the joint. When I replaced a water heater on a wood floor, I put it in a plastic tub two inches deep. That way I was able to notice leaks before the floor got wet. It also keeps the floor dry during maintenance and repair procedures. I don't know if putting your tank into a shallow tub would be too much trouble. An anode is a sacrificial metal element, usually a rod or chain that is made of a metal that is electrochemically more active than the water heater tank (aluminum or magnesium alloys). The anode corrodes instead of the water heater tank. The rod must connect electrically to the tank so Teflon tape is not a good idea. Most often the initial failure is a slow leak, not a violent rupture so placing the water heater in a shallow pan, even if it isn't connected to a drain is adequate if you also put a leak detector which is connected to an alarm in the pan. Rod anodes are difficult to remove or install unless you have high ceilings. Chain anodes are best for replacements. Boden |
#19
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
Boden wrote:
E Z Peaces wrote: Geek Dad wrote: On Nov 18, 11:23 am, "Bob F" wrote: "Geek Dad" wrote in message ... 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? Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - The anode? What does that do and who can repair that - plumber? Water: we live in SouthEastern Pennsylvania, does that help? An anode is a metal road that extends into the water from the top of the tank. It can keep the inside of the tank from rusting. On some tanks they are easy for a homeowner to replace. It probably needs a good electrical bond to the tank. I don't know if that precludes using teflon tape to prevent leaks. If I contemplated replacing an anode, I'd want to know if it was likely to be needed for people on my water system, how difficult the job would be with my tank, and what was the best way to seal the joint. When I replaced a water heater on a wood floor, I put it in a plastic tub two inches deep. That way I was able to notice leaks before the floor got wet. It also keeps the floor dry during maintenance and repair procedures. I don't know if putting your tank into a shallow tub would be too much trouble. An anode is a sacrificial metal element, usually a rod or chain that is made of a metal that is electrochemically more active than the water heater tank (aluminum or magnesium alloys). The anode corrodes instead of the water heater tank. The rod must connect electrically to the tank so Teflon tape is not a good idea. Most often the initial failure is a slow leak, not a violent rupture so placing the water heater in a shallow pan, even if it isn't connected to a drain is adequate if you also put a leak detector which is connected to an alarm in the pan. Rod anodes are difficult to remove or install unless you have high ceilings. Chain anodes are best for replacements. Boden I've read that if there's not enough head room, you can bend an anode as you withdraw it. How about flushing a couple of gallons from the bottom every year or so? It would remove sediment. Wouldn't increased rust be a warning to replace the anode? The water heater with the pan is in a utility room with lots of traffic. The leaks I detected with it were at the threaded and soldered connections at the top of the tank. Because of evaporation, it might have taken months for the tub to overflow from the drippy leaks. Without the tub I would have had damage to the wood before I noticed. I don't remember any catastrophic leaks where I have lived. Maybe it's because water pressure has been about 40 PSI. Online, I've found that some water systems specify 80 PSI while others require regulators if it's above 50. I wonder if keeping pressure down to 40 or 50 would extend the life of plumbing and make catastrophic leaks less likely. |
#20
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
|
#21
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:21*am, 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? I have an new water heater ( gas ) in my garage for a spar, because mine is 8 years old and it always seem's that it will burst or leak when u are not home. If u got 14 years out of your's, consider yourself (VERY) lucky and should go down to foxwoods and gamble, just kidding, and my advice is to replace it, and have a clear conscious when u go to bed. Good luck, henry |
#22
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
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? ================================================== ======================== 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. |
#23
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
"PerryOne" wrote in message ... 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? snip My humble opinion. You got 14 years of service from the water heater. You MIGHT be able to squeeze another year or more out of it. You have a finished basement. How much are you willing to gamble? If your tank bursts, how much damage will the water do? How much will it destroy irreplaceable items? How much inconvenience would it cost? How much of a hassle will you have with your insurance company? You are just delaying the inevitable. Replace it and go to sleep without doubts. |
#24
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 10:21*am, 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? My 75 gallon gas-fired AO Smith leaked at exactly the 11 year point, it gets very heavy usage. It probably would have lasted longer but we had horrible water for the first 6 years, then got municiple water. Luckily I spotted the leak while it was still a trickle, but it did cause some laminate flooring to swell in the basement by the closet door. After 14 years I'd just go ahead and replace it and rest easy. AO Smith is a good brand IMHO. My new one is a Rheem 75 gal. which the plumber had on hand (my back cant take hauling out a 75 gal myself). |
#25
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:21:18 -0800 (PST), 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? I'd keep what I have until it stops working. I know of water tanks to operate for 30 years. A safety catch pan under the tank with a hooked-up drain is cheap insurance. A water-sensing alarm (about $40) is another item to consider. |
#26
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 19, 7:05�pm, Phisherman wrote:
On Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:21:18 -0800 (PST), 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? I'd keep what I have until it stops working. �I know of water tanks to operate for 30 years. � A safety catch pan under the tank with a hooked-up drain is cheap insurance. �A water-sensing alarm (about $40) is another item to consider.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text - I had a tank leak inside the flue, water sprayed out everywhere from the top....... a new tank is cheap insurance, plus its way more convenent. had one fail on christmas eve with houseguests coming. |
#28
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:23:30 -0800, "Bob F" wrote:
Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference. Bob F gets my vote for best and most succinct response in the thread. I installed my AO Smith 40-gal. gas FSG in '92. Just finished pulling anode, etc. Draining from tank shows nearly no sediment. Anode is pretty well pitted, but not at all trashed. After 16 years light use in St. Louis, MO, USA. Now, if I could just find a replacement anode ... :-) P "Take Yo' Hand Out My Pocket (I Ain't Got Nothing What Belongs To You)!" - Rice Miller, who probably never even _heard_ of GW Bush, Paulson, etc |
#29
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
Puddin' Man wrote:
On Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:23:30 -0800, "Bob F" wrote: Replace the anode and it may last for many years. The water where you are makes a big difference. Bob F gets my vote for best and most succinct response in the thread. I installed my AO Smith 40-gal. gas FSG in '92. Just finished pulling anode, etc. Draining from tank shows nearly no sediment. Anode is pretty well pitted, but not at all trashed. After 16 years light use in St. Louis, MO, USA. Now, if I could just find a replacement anode ... :-) I ordered mine from waterheaterrescue.com. Wasn't able to find a local source for anything larger than RV sized. nate -- replace "roosters" with "cox" to reply. http://members.cox.net/njnagel |
#30
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:11:09 -0500, Nate Nagel wrote:
I ordered mine from waterheaterrescue.com. Wasn't able to find a local source for anything larger than RV sized. Thanks. I'll check 'em out. P "Take Yo' Hand Out My Pocket (I Ain't Got Nothing What Belongs To You)!" - Rice Miller, who probably never even _heard_ of GW Bush, Paulson, etc |
#31
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 22, 5:42�am, wrote:
On Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:09:45 -0800 (PST), " wrote: I had a tank leak inside the flue, water sprayed out everywhere from the top....... That's a common place to spring a leak. � it was exciting and upsetting seeing water spraying everywhere. common surprises me, leak was near top |
#32
Posted to alt.home.repair
|
|||
|
|||
Our water heater is 14 years old - replace it?
On Nov 18, 11:21*am, 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? if u say money is no object, just replace it and stop talking about it. henry |
Reply |
Thread Tools | Search this Thread |
Display Modes | |
|
|
Similar Threads | ||||
Thread | Forum | |||
Ok, so can I replace my own water heater? | Home Repair | |||
Hot Water Heater Let Loose on New Years Day | Home Repair | |||
6 Water Heater failures in 14 years! | Home Repair | |||
When to replace water heater? | Home Repair | |||
Replace gas water heater | Home Repair |