I am a homeowner with kids in college (thus looking to avoid expenses, if possible). My current water heater is 23 years old. Like most homeowners, I have never done anything to maintain it. For most of its life, the temperature has been set between 120-140 F (with fewer kids in the house, currently it is set at 120 F). Recently, my wife thinks that the amount and temperature of our hot water has dropped (she takes hot showers and probably is more sensitive to such things than I am). I've examined the burner and bottom of the tank. While there are some rust flakes on the burner, the bottom of the tank looks rust-free and the flue looks pretty good, too (no obvious water streaks and just a little bit of rust). There are no water leaks under the tank. So, I have the following questions for the knowledgable people here:
1. Should I just ignore this until the heater is obviously not working, then replace it?
2. Should I try to replace the dip tube and anode to maintain it (i.e., to try to extend its life)?
3. Should I start lining up bids right now and preemptively replace it?
If (and when) I do replace it, what brands are recommended? We'll be living here for the next 20 years, I imagine, so I am willing to pay more up front for a longer product life.
Thanks for any advice!
1. Should I just ignore this until the heater is obviously not working, then replace it?
2. Should I try to replace the dip tube and anode to maintain it (i.e., to try to extend its life)?
3. Should I start lining up bids right now and preemptively replace it?
If (and when) I do replace it, what brands are recommended? We'll be living here for the next 20 years, I imagine, so I am willing to pay more up front for a longer product life.
Thanks for any advice!