A leaky water heater had one household facing an expensive replacement.
Two companies had recommended replacing the six-year-old, 75-gallon unit, but some people questioned whether the slow leak required scrapping the entire tank.
Here's what to know
The homeowner reached out to Reddit to explore whether there was another way. She explained that the tank had been serviced several months before the leak with no issues.
"Should we go with another 75 gallon tank? Tankless? We have two full bathrooms. Currently just me and my husband," she continued, posting a photo of rust forming on the leaky unit.
More background
The homeowner also worried about possible damage inside the heater. Before switching to town water, the household had spent two years using well water with heavy mineral deposits.
If a replacement was indeed necessary, commenters questioned whether a two-person household even needed another 75-gallon water heater, as a smaller water heater is typically cheaper to purchase and install.
Although the couple entertained during the holidays, they did not run multiple consecutive showers or have a soaking tub.
"75 gal is overkill for two people," one person asserted.
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Others weren't convinced the unit was on its last legs. One person recommended repairing the fittings, while some identified the heater's cold nipple and supply line as possible places to troubleshoot.
Getting a third opinion could bring more clarity, another said. "If you get the same answer ask what your options are," they concluded.
If a tank ultimately needs replacing, upgrading from a conventional electric resistance model to a heat pump water heater, like one from Cala, can reduce household energy spending.
Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat into water, and Cala offers configurable smart heat pump water heaters that can align water-heating schedules with household demand.
Where can I learn more?
A replacement is the best course of action in many situations, but a leaking water heater doesn't always need to be retired.
• A plumber flagged reused fittings as possible culprits in a leaky water heater.
• After a water-heater replacement recommendation, commenters urged a homeowner to check the pressure first.
• A water heater appeared to leak from the top until plumbers questioned the vent setup.
• In Australia, a homeowner with a 2002 gas water heater heard warnings about replacement recommendations.
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