Water Heater, Repair or replace and with what?

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Kville

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First time poster here. My water heater is 29 years old. It has never had any repairs nor servicing. It is an electric 40 gal Rheem. I think the lower heating element is out. We have hot water but it doesn't last long. No tank damage, no rust on the outside of tank. A couple friends said they would fix the element and drive on, a few said given the age, to go ahead and replace it. What do you guys think? If I replace, my local options are Rheem from Home Depot, AO Smith from Lowes, and American Water Heater brand from local plumbing supply store. Thanks for any replies and suggestions.
 

John Gayewski

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If your doing the work yourself and don't mind it, I would fix it. Just know there's a possibility (strong possibility) you'll turn around and replace it anyway in a few months. Or cause more damage and a headache trying to fix it.

If your hiring a plumber definitely replace.
 

Kville

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Thanks y'all for the responses. Out of the ones I mentioned, which would you lean toward?
 

Fitter30

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Kville

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That's out of my range for right now. Here are the three I am leaning toward.


American Water Heater



Rheem



AO Smith



40 gal should do it for family of 4 right? Thanks again.
 
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Jeff H Young

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possible to extend life likely if your DIY but paying a qualified plumber might not pencil out. I work on so few electric tanks but they are very simple,, change element or both and t stats and possibly muck out heater with shop vac through the hole. might work.
KVILLE. you still living with cold water or which way did you go with rectifying issue?
 

Calvin R Rivera

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In my opinion, it is better to buy a new one. Its repair cost will be very high. I am leaning towards the American Water heater and Rheem.
 

Jeff H Young

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better not cheaper 50 bucks for parts to repair labor is a factor , DIY no labor cost. another factor is the finances of the owner
 
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