You may find yourself in a situation where you’re considering installing a used water heater. Although it’s not typically recommended, below, we’ll answer the question; Can you reuse a water heater?
Yes, you can reuse a water heater. From working in the plumbing field as a Master Plumbing and seeing all types of issues related to water heaters, if you’re going to reuse a water heater, I would consider the age and use caution. Also, I would recommend having an experienced plumber to inspect the water heater before installation.
Below are a couple things to consider before installing a used water heater.
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5 Things To Consider Before Installing A Used Water Heater
- Check For Rust; Check for signs of rust and deterioration. If there is a lot of rust around the outlet and inlet, the tank’s inside walls are probably rusted. Ideally, you wouldn’t want to see rust on the threaded area; however, a little rust is most likely and is ok.
- Check Working Components; Rather, the water heater is an electric or a gas heater; we need to check the heating components for rust and corrosion. If it’s a gas unit, make sure the pilot light stays lite, the burner assembly falling apart from rust, and check the anode rod. For electric heaters, you would take the access cover off to inspect and ensure the elements do not have any signs of leaking around the threaded ports and leaking on the electrical wires and thermostats. Replace the components that show any sign of weakness or leaking.
- Replace The P&T Valve; Out of all the components, I think the P&T valve should be replaced on any previously used water heater. The P&T Valve (pressure and temperature) is a safety that relieves itself if the pressure or temperature increases too much. This is the most common repair on a water heater and is related to safety, so for this reason, I would recommend changing. Here’s a link for the recommended P&T Valve.
- How Long Has It Sit With Water In It; If it’s been sitting a long time with water in it and not being used, I would warn of the possible accumulated degree that could be at the bottom of the heater. It can grow bacteria in it and can be really hard to get the tank cleaned thoroughly; this could be the most likely reason I wouldn’t reuse one. It can be treated with chemicals and eventually clear out with use, but I would do it. Also, older plumbing fixtures and water heater are more acceptable to leaks from the expansion and contracting heat and cooling cause.
- Install In A Larger Pan; Just for a little peace of mind, you could install a bigger pan that will help should anything start to leak later. You need at least 2″ from the heater to the side of the pan all around. Make sure the pan drain line is a minimum of 1″ in size, so it drains fast enough should something happen. Here is the only pan that I would recommend on Amazon Link. It has higher sides, 30×30, and folded corners not seamed. When setting a water heater pan, make sure to drive any screws down, sink any nail lower, and clean the area. This simple tip could save you from a leaking pan should. I’ve seen this happen. I want to mention that to keep any degree, paperwork, or insulation away from this water heater. Insulation will clog your pan drain and cause property damage if it overflows. Again, I’ve seen this happen. Multiple gallons of water sitting in your home or even your attic is not to be taken lightly.
Always properly install the water heater to the building & plumbing codes in your area.
Risk Of Using A Used Water Heater
When thinking about reusing a Water Heater, we need to consider the associated risk and damages caused by water, electricity, gas, or carbon dioxide. The possible damage caused by a failing water heater can far outweigh the price of a new water heater and installation.
- short life span
- water damage
- waste of time & money
- older heaters have lower efficiency
- smelly water
- crackling noise
- slower recovery rate
Conclusion
Although, it’s not typically recommended to reuse a water heater. But, if you faced a situation of needing to install a used water heater, it can be done however caution is advised.
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- New Electric Water Heater 50 electric A.O. Smith Pro
- Flexible Anode Rod, Easy Install, Good For Rutten Egg Smell
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