I've got a Kenmore Power Miser 12 gas water heater that's been running like a champ for 27 years, but with a family relying on it and a finished basement around it, I'm debating whether or not to replace it preventively. Can anyone talk me out of just swapping it out for something new?
3 Answers
Maintenance is key! Water heaters tend to fail at the worst times, like when guests are over or you have plans. If your heater could cause damage (like in a finished basement), it's usually best to replace it before it causes major issues.
I had a 20-year-old water heater that also seemed fine, but I decided to replace it before it caused trouble. I saved cash by setting up the new unit myself and just getting a plumber to connect it. It cost me about $1300 and was worth not having to deal with an unexpected failure.
If it fails, especially on a weekend, you're in for a hefty bill. It's always a gamble to wait for failure, and you might end up paying way more in the long run. Consider an efficient heat pump — it could save you money on operating costs, especially during summer.
Exactly! Efficient units can really help in the long run, especially if you haven't flushed your current one due to hard water. Planning ahead can save you so much hassle.
Yeah, you definitely don’t want to risk ruining your basement if it decides to fail on a Friday night!