Fix it or Buy New One?

12.5 years ago, I had a new Rheem 40 gallon gas water heater installed at my primary residence. It has worked flawlessly for 12.5 years and then yesterday I noticed there is no more hot water. I removed the cover at the bottom and saw no pilot light. I tried to re-light the pilot and it will not light. Could be a thermo-coupler problem or something else?

According to Google, 40 gallon water tanks (gas or electric) generally last 8-12 years. Again, mine is 12.5 years.

In this situation , would you be shopping for a new tank or trying to fix the one you got? My tank is not leaking,..just not producing any hot water. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by razorback_tim [AR]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:32 AM
Message:

I would first try to fix it.

If the pilot won't light at all, it is not your thermocouple - or at least that's not your only problem. A bad or dirty thermocouple will keep the pilot from staying lit but won't keep it from lighting at all. I would start by making sure there is gas to the appliance and then clean the pilot assembly (and thermocouple while I'm there). If that doesn't work it could be the thermostat.

Water heaters are pretty simple appliances and about the only reason to replace them is when they are leaking IMO. --70.178.x.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Vee [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:41 AM
Message:

I agree with Razorback, I always save the gas controls and burner parts so when one of the new one quits I can swap out the whole thing and get a hot bath till the thing actually leaks and sprays out the flames, when you see one out at tree-bay just unscrew the burner with thermocouple (3/8), pilot tube (7/16) and the main burner gas line (some metric close to 3/4 so try 11/16 also) and unscrew the control valve using a 10inch nipple hand tightened into the inlet port - using the fabric tape by your favorite name cover the gas holes and run back to the car before anyone observes the money saving tricks of Mr. Vee. --76.188.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Vee [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:48 AM
Message:

I should caution you to turn of the water before you swap out the control unit (3/4 inch pipe screwed into the side) or you will wish you had your second favorite bathing suit on, it will get dirty and very wet very fast. So once you have gathered up some spares you will quickly be able to get a tank heating again in a jiff. --76.188.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by cjl [NY]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:52 AM
Message:

I'm with the others ... I would fix it as long as it isn't leaking.

--69.201.xx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:54 AM
Message:

Vee,

I just got off the phone with my plumber. (He is an authorized Rheem/Ruud installer). His recommendation is to replace it with a new one,...it may not be leaking now, but a year from now it will be.

--68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Vee [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 7:01 AM
Message:

Save this for a temper tank, this will save you heating cost on the one that works - gets piped in series so the water flow goes in front of your normal tank - a 10ft of PEX and some valves and then when it does leak you will have saved up enough for a new tank that provides heat, I have many tanks going on past 20 years by changing the anode but all you need now is flames. I just went to look at my rheen - there is a push switch on the front panel that stops the pilot, try pushing this, it makes a gentle klik sound and then you are back in business. --76.188.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Doris [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 7:07 AM
Message:

I agree with Roy. I only have electric, not familiar with gas but I have noticed over the years that water heaters don’t last as long as they used to. Have 4 water heaters at apartments that are over 20 years old and are starting to go, replaced 2 in last year, but newer ones we have installed only last half that time. Planned obsolescence like every thing else. Actually the only thing I can think of that lasts longer now is cars. --74.140.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Gail K [GA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 7:10 AM
Message:

If it were in a rental, I'd replace it. Since it's your own residence, I'd do with the others above have suggested.

Why replace in a rental? Because it's a pain in a low spot to have to address these things with tenants living there. We just (yesterday) got a house back and I told Bill we're replacing the 9 year old hot water heater that had a six year warranty. Why? It's gone out twice in the past year and although I've left instructions and shown them how to relight (easy/peasy) they never figured out how to do this. It's an old, old house and the hot water heater is in a corner of the kitchen so we have to tromp through a bunch of junk to get to it.

Now that the place is empty and while it's being cleaned we'll replace the darn thing and take the cost of it off the taxes.

Gail --71.203.xx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 7:12 AM
Message:

Vee,

I will try the 'push switch' you mentioned. I sure could use a hot shower right now. You never miss it until it is gone. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by AllyM [NJ]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 7:42 AM
Message:

I don't mess with fixing it because the problem if it cracks is going to be much worse. Here they crack due to extreme cold water being called for when grandma tenny does several loads of laundry on a frigid day to warm up the basement. Drains the hot water heater and then it fills with brutally cold water from the big reservoir a half mile from here that is uncovered. --73.33.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by TenantWhisperer [MA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 9:18 AM
Message:

It's not leaking, it just won't light?

That sure sounds like a thermocouple problem. Just replace the thermocouple for about $12. --73.16.xxx.x

Fix it or Buy New One? (by JAC [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 9:35 AM
Message:

We have a 24 year old water heater, no leaks. My parents had a 30+ year old water heater, no leaks. I don't buy the 12.5 year lifespan. I would try to replace the thermocouple for $10 and try to get another 10-16 years out of it. --66.42.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 10:26 AM
Message:

JAC,

In 2006, a new 40 gallon gas water heater was installed in my first rental house. 11 years later, it started leaking and got replaced. I do believe in the shorter life span.

Here the gas company (who competes with the power co) offers discounts up to $350.00 on replacement units. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by NC INVESTOR [NC]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 11:57 AM
Message:

I would replace it. Fixing a 12-13 YO water heater is not only delaying the inevitable I think it's a waste of money.

You've already learned it's technically at its end of life just bite the bullet.

I've installed waterless tanks with 15-20 years life expectancy both in my home and the properties. I avoid the high installation costs for revising the existing venting by having them installed on the exterior. They work great and in the end it is a lot more cost efficient. --71.75.xx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Ed [PA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 12:21 PM
Message:

I find it hard to believe the number a landlords that are recommending to replace vs repair. I understand plumbers recommending that because they are all fat, lazy, lying, drunken, thieves but Landlords?! I give it 90% that it is a bad thermocouple which costs $7 to $15 at Lowes and takes 10 minutes to change. --72.95.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by JAC [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 12:40 PM
Message:

There is always a risk of shortened life span for any purchased equipment. My experience indicates the risk vs reward for water heaters isn't 12.5 years but over double that. I still stand by fixing it and dealing with anything that happens later. Like Ed said, it's 10 minutes and $10 to swap the thermocouple. I would take that risk any day. --66.42.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 1:04 PM
Message:

Take it easy there Ed,..not all plumbers are what you describe. The master plumber I have used for 10 years at rentals does not even send me a bill for any work he does at my primary residence. And the fees he charges for work at rental properties is very reasonable. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by cjo'h [CT]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 1:11 PM
Message:

Doris,and people.I had a forty gal.one that lasted 41 years and more Away back.Now I think the next one that goes kaput,I'll put in a tank less job.That's all they use back in Northern Ireland,if they weren't good and cheap they wouldn't use them.They're not cheap here,but they're gradually coming down.Roy ,why don't you be a guniea pig.and try a tank less unending supply of hot................charlie.....................................using a manifold and Pex........................................direct line.............................. --174.199.x.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Jo [CT]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 3:14 PM
Message:

You can fix it, then put a battery powered water alarm...Home Depot..at the base of the water heater.

I have these in my rentals, as 2 water heaters are in the 2nd and 3rd floor apartments.

They emit a loud screeching sound when they detect water. Better the tenant hears that and turns off the incoming water valve rather than have a water heater leaking down to the basement...especially if it's city water...lots of pressure.

Ask me why I know this!!! --32.215.xxx.xxx --32.215.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Smokowna [MD]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 3:37 PM
Message:

Fix it yourself, or hire the fat lazy to swap it out.

What I have started to do is collect used water heaters. Not for the reason of saving money but for having one sitting next to the current heater.

If I'm not close enough to do the swap, I need someone to come over and have an easy time of changing a leaking heater.

I put this theory into practice four or five years ago when I was in Europe. Since that time I think one more went and a used one which was standing ready....so I never made it to the store.

How long they last depends on the water you have. If your water is full of crud (Technical jargon) then they will not last as long. I have one heater that just turned 20 years old. It gets a lot of use.

* The laws have changed and locally water heaters now need expansion tanks. This means the labor alone on a swap is $850. This plays into my decision making. New heaters are often installed with flex lines or quick connect shark bites. I try to install the heaters so that they can be removed and replaced faster than pulling your Velcro ski suit off.

--74.96.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by RB [MI]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 4:15 PM
Message:

Flip a Coin. --47.35.xx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Vee [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 4:32 PM
Message:

Did you get anything from the pilot tube port? you could always take the guts from the house with water off and transplant to get your bathtub hot... --76.188.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by kevin [FL]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 6:12 PM
Message:

I would fix it, gas last much longer than electric. Changed mine out that was still working after 23 years. --47.201.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by BRAD 20,000 [IN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2018 11:13 PM
Message:

Roy,

Me? We always fix before replace.

Old WHs are tougher than the new ones. We’ve had some oldies last a looonng time.

Now if you are awash with extra cash...

BRAD --68.51.xx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Jason [PA]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2018 4:15 AM
Message:

Depending on water and other conditions I've had gas water heaters last 30 years. If you have a bunch of little rust pin spots forming then chances are it won't last a whole lot longer but still probably may be a few years. In addition to changing the thermocouple the followed the little gas line from the thermocouple to the gas regulator and usually there is a set screw that you take offs with an Allen wrench and you can adjust the gas pressure to the pilot light also. Sometimes thermocouples getting replaced also need a pilot light adjustment either up or down too much flame can be a badd saying and not enough is a badd thing --98.117.xxx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Peter [NH]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2018 8:36 AM
Message:

I would try to fix it first if it is not leaking. I have pans and alarms on all my units ( they are awesome ). New code here requires expansion tanks and mixing valves to kill Legionaires disease bacteria. $1500 installed . Just had 2 done last week. --73.61.xx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by fred silva [AZ]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2018 9:12 PM
Message:

If this is a WH in your house:

- Replace the thermocouple.

- clean the burning chamber, remove dust, make sure vents are clean and not obstructed.

- start saving money for a new WH.

If it's a rental, as a landlord, I always replace the WH on the first sign of trouble. No time for repairs and call backs. Remember, the tenant is entitled to have a working WH without interruption, no excuses accepted. And a new WH is a deductable expense for a landlord.

--99.59.x.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by BRAD 20,000 [IN]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2018 9:25 PM
Message:

Roy,

If you are saying the pilot will not catch a flame, it’s as simple as an itty bittty flake of grit in the pilot’s orifice.

Take the pilot tune loose and blow the girt out backwards.

I used to carry a spool of super super thin brass wire 36? Guage? to poke thru the orifice to clean it.

BRAD --68.51.xx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 19, 2018 6:34 AM
Message:

Brad20K and other DIYers,

I made a serious attempt this past weekend in trying to fix my own gas hot water heater. With cell phone assistance from master handyman Vee (OH), I was able to remove the entire burner assembly. I then went to Lowes to find a replacement Thermocouple. Lowes does not sell these type of parts because they do not consider this a DIY type project. They told me to go a local kitchen Appliance parts dealer. My small town has one such dealer but they do not stock any parts for my Rheem brand water heater. Yes, they can order anything I need but that will take a min. of 2 days and shipping cost. I could have fixed this IF I could have located a Thermocouple yesterday.

Now it is Monday, I have not had hot water in 3 days and I am about to go insane. So much for DIY here,...I did make a serious attempt but failed,...my plumber is on his way over to install a new Rheem 40 gallon tank. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by S i d [MO]) Posted on: Feb 19, 2018 6:46 AM
Message:

You've already made your decision, so this is just a reminder for the future...

Asking a supplier/dealer if you should replace an item is like asking a dog if he's hungry. He has an inherent conflict of interest. Doesn't mean he's wrong, but it means the answer will almost always be "yes."

If they say "No" and something bad happens, they know you will blame them. If they say "Yes" and something bad happens, they can always blame the product and call in the warranty. They literally have nothing to lose by saying "Yes" all the time. --173.17.xx.xx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by Roy [AL]) Posted on: Feb 19, 2018 7:30 AM
Message:

Sid,

With any DIY project, no matter how simple it may seem to others, trying to do it yourself involves TIME more than anything else. I wasted 4 hours ($100.00) this weekend trying to fix something that many here said was a simple fix. It may be simple to others but when it is your first time to replace a part and no parts can be located,..well,. there comes a point in which it is just not worth the effort,..unless you don't put any value on your own time.

Also, with other DIY projects, sometimes just not having the right tools to do the job with can make the difference between DIY or hiring it out. How many tools have you bought just to do one job with and then never used them again?

My plumber just called and is on his way. He could replace just the thermocouple on my tank but with a 12 year tank, it may be money down the drain. Pay me now or pay me later. --68.63.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by mike [CA]) Posted on: Feb 22, 2018 10:15 AM
Message:

swap it out and get a pro grade one from a plumbers warehouse, not the home depot. they're about $420 bucks at ferguson supply here i california for a bradford white

at 12 years it may leak any time now and i got twenty bucks says it leaks when you're not there to notice and it wrecks some stuff.

in a rental i swap at the first sign of trouble...it eliminates the whining from the tenants and saves torment in the future --76.176.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by mike [CA]) Posted on: Feb 22, 2018 10:15 AM
Message:

swap it out and get a pro grade one from a plumbers warehouse, not the home depot. they're about $420 bucks at ferguson supply here i california for a bradford white

at 12 years it may leak any time now and i got twenty bucks says it leaks when you're not there to notice and it wrecks some stuff.

in a rental i swap at the first sign of trouble...it eliminates the whining from the tenants and saves torment in the future --76.176.xxx.xxx

Fix it or Buy New One? (by cjo'h [CT]) Posted on: Feb 22, 2018 11:32 PM
Message:

Roy,you'll also smell better...... ..... ...... .... Charlie.... ... .. . ...... ..... .... --174.199.x.xxx

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