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Author:
HomeOwner79 (OK)
I have a 40 gallon water tank (gas) that was in place when I bought my house. The time of my hot water supply for my showers has decreased and my hot water for showers only goes for about 10-15 minutes. I have never done any maintenance on the tank but I have tried placing an insulating cover over the tank. I talked to a plumber about it and he suggested replacing thewholetank. I am in search of a second opinion. My thought was replacing the rod that runs in the tank and having it drained and cleaned out. Any suggestions?
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Author:
SHEPLMBR70 (VA)
GAS or ELECTRIC?
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Author:
Paul48 (CT)
How old? How long have you been living in the house?
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Author:
Leahp (CA)
Sounds like it could be on its last leg. Have you considered tankless before? They are initially a bit more expensive, but the investment seems like it pays off in the long run because it outlives standard tanks.
Best of luck! 
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Author:
HomeOwner79 (OK)
I have been in the house for 5 years.
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Author:
HomeOwner79 (OK)
I have considered a tank less water heater but have previously not read favorable reviews. I will check out the link provided. Thank you.
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Author:
asktom (MT)
Try flushing the tank through the drain valve, it will cost you nothing and may help. I say it will cost you nothing, but if the valve drips when you are done you will need to invest in a metal (get solid brass) hose cap.
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Author:
Paul48 (CT)
Gas tank-less water heaters can work just fine, if properly sized. Do not buy one thinking you are going to save money heating your water. If you look up the definition of a BTU, that should become clear. Standby losses on modern water heaters are very small.Like a wall-hung boiler, they require maintenance, and that is an expense. In that article, they say that the tank-less will never wind up in a landfill, unlike a tank type heater. Where the heck does it go when it has finished its life? It would make a pretty ugly planter on the front lawn. Don't get me wrong, they can be really nice, but they are a luxury.
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Author:
srloren (CA)
My experience with Tankless tells me to stay away from that "Technology". It sucks and you must drain and clean them twice annualy with Vinegar...gallons of Vinegar. If you have room for it, buy the 6 year water heater and spend the extra $60 for the Insurance. The latest Water Heaters are very well insulated and many have a great simple ignition system that is eco friendly. Ask your Plumber to get you a Bradford White Water Heater. Don't over size it. You will be glad you did.
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