Water heater recommendations.

[m@w]

I need to replace my water heater this week. I'm looking for any advice on where to buy one at a good price and one that will be dependable. The one in the house is 22 years old. Any advice will be appreciated.

 

[DixieDoug]

Get another one like the one that lasted 22 years. I like Loews.

 

[mountainpass]

Yeah if you got 22 years on it, then I would seek that brand.

I like Rheem.

 

[sniper22]

Don't matter what you get, they aren't made the same anymore. Get the biggest one that you can afford and that will fit in the old one's space. Then chance the sacrificial rod every year or so.

 

[fondoo57]

If I had it to do over I'd go tankless.

 

[ne ga pappy]

x2, when I have to, that is what I will do.

 

[sniper22]

If I had it to do over I'd go tankless.

I would if I didn't have total electric. .

 

[7pt62THOR]

'"THEY" don't make 'em like that anymore. Most Rheem are made in mexico now. State, A.O. Smith, and American are made in Tennessee. There may be others made in the good 'ol USA. Look for 'em.

 

[woodstock]

Bonus Points for Not saying Hot Water Heater!

Make sure it's the same/similar height so any changes to tie up will be small- like the water lines, gas and vent, blow off. If the new one is too tall, it may not vent properly.

Id replace the vent pipe tie for sure. You more than got your money's worth and were dang lucky it didn't let go in 22 years. I'm replacing mine next year and its 9 years old.

Have used rheem, bradford white,state, and in larger applications lochinvar.

 

[Hayata]

Rheem makes the GE brand. They still have a plant in Montgomery.

Get one with the heavy duty anode. You may have to special order.

Did you know you're supposed to inspect the anode each year?

If you install it yourself do not turn on the power until after the unit is full.

Good luck!