Sky wrote:
> I want to ask "here" on RFC and, yeah-yeah, I can look at many other
> resources - and NO, Consumers Report hasn't helped - I checked!
>
> I'm of mind to very soon replace my rather old (natural gas) water
> heater that's way over 17+ years old, and I know nearly nothing about
> water heaters. I've done some initial research and don't a want 'hot
> water on demand' heater (not really feasible for my usage - one
> person, single home), nor a 'hybrid' electric/gas water heater either
> (won't fit in space). But. I do want to buy a water heater that's
> for a family of four or more, for 'sale' appeal 
(60+ gallons
> plus????)
> However, those criteria stated, I want to buy a new water (natural
> gas) heater with house-resell value in mind.
>
> Then there's the "energy star" aspect and tax incentives, etc. Not to
> mention tax rebates.
>
> Consumer Reports (CR) listed only four manufacturers (in no particular
> order) - GE, Kenmore (isn't that Sears?), Rheem, and Whirlpool. Alas,
> CR does not include any ratings comparisons - BUMMER !
>
> So, please help ! If anyone has suggestions and such, I'd greatly
> appreciate to learn them. Particularly if those suggestions are the
> sort that say "BEWARE!" :/ TIA.
>
> Sky
Ours is Bradford White. Had nothing but trouble with the new one. Still
not sure what the problem was on that. Had to call repair out twice.
Although it was still under warranty, I still had to pay the expensive
repair costs. In the end, they just replaced it.
As they took the old one out, I noticed how banged and dented it was,
especially on the back side. For that reason, I sat at the edge of the
garage and watched the guy put the new one in. No problems with that one.
Other one kept losing the pilot light. I was constantly having to relight
it. Sometimes as often as every 2 hours. No problems so far with the new
one.
I did have to pay about $2,000 for the new one but that included an auxilary
tank and retrofitting. Not sure if you'd need those things where you are.
It is an energy saver. I used to pay about $35 a month for my old tank.
With the new one it's usually around $17 to $25 a month. The higher amount
only when husband is home. He takes hella long showers.