I have an electric hot water heater that is 14 years old. It seems to leave a constant puddle around the bottom. The tank sits on a patio stone with no space between the tank and stone( no feet). The water temperature seems to run hot despite turning down the thermostat control. Is this tank history? Is a service call worthwhile or money better spent on replacement? I am able to replace the tank myself but diagnosis is not my speciality. Should I just ride out the problem until complete failure. Are there more efficient electric water heaters that would justify replacement anyways?
Answer:
You don't really want to be dealing with a hot water tank that lets go. I'd replace the thing yesterday if possible. That slight drip may become a 40-gallon gush without notice and that can be embarassing.
