Im looking to buy a buffer storage tank to heat my dhw. What are some options other than another hot water heater? Cheapest 50gal at lowes is $399. I would like one that was built better and not worry about leaks. My heater now is lifetime guarantee but is 11 years old .( can't but that one anymore). Was going to keep it for the main tank and just add a buffer.
Storage tank
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OH_Varmntr
Burning Hunk
Have you checked your local plumbing service company? They may have leads on old hot water tanks from replacing old ones or upgrading to larger ones.
Yes I have a friend plumber he said he doesn't recommend an old tank due to poss leaking problems. He said it's a risk using an old hwh because they leak around the welds. I thought there may be a better tank to use ?
maple1
Minister of Fire
A buffer storage tank is used to hold water that has already been heated - but you also say 'to heat my dhw'. Just wondering exactly what you will be using it for as that is a bit conflicting.
If you just want to add volume I would likely just look for a used water heater on Craigs or whatever - people are all the time changing their heating sources so I usually see used heaters that aren't very old. Check the anode rod & replace if necessary & it should be good to go for a while - put it in a drain pan thing with a hose running to a drain just in case, and put shut offs & unions & drains in places that will make future changes easier if necessary. Something like a used propane tank would last a long time but it would continually bleed a bit of rust over time from the fresh water constantly passing through, so I wouldn't go there.
If you just want to add volume I would likely just look for a used water heater on Craigs or whatever - people are all the time changing their heating sources so I usually see used heaters that aren't very old. Check the anode rod & replace if necessary & it should be good to go for a while - put it in a drain pan thing with a hose running to a drain just in case, and put shut offs & unions & drains in places that will make future changes easier if necessary. Something like a used propane tank would last a long time but it would continually bleed a bit of rust over time from the fresh water constantly passing through, so I wouldn't go there.
Yes this will be used as a buffer storage tank . (Holding hot water ) heated by coil in stove prior to entering main hot water heater tank. The main prob is plumber friend doesn't want to use a used hot water tank due to poss leaks. He feels it's better to buy a new one to have a longer life before a poss leak problem. I am looking to see if there's another tank option that is cost effective and has a long life expectancy ?
OH_Varmntr
Burning Hunk
With a carbon steel tank you will always battle with corrosion. How is the quality of your domestic water supply?
Clarkbug
Minister of Fire
If your plumber friend won't put in a used tank, I don't see any other option than buying a new one.
There are other possibilities, but not if you are excluding used tanks. You won't find a new DHW rated tank for less than a cheap electric heater.
There are other possibilities, but not if you are excluding used tanks. You won't find a new DHW rated tank for less than a cheap electric heater.
Ok thanks. I guess I will have to get a new water heater. ( unless I can find a good used one)He will hook up a used 1 but I don't think he wants it to cause a problem and wants to be on the safe side. Does not make a lot of sence to me because my main tank is 11 years old and we are leaving it as main tank..I thought their was other options out there that may be cost effective $300-$400 range
Check around the box stores and plumbing suppliers, they often have scratch and dents at reduced prices.
hoverwheel
Burning Hunk
The added tank will be in series just before your main water heater, and will preheat your water using a coil in the wood stove?
Does it make sense energy wise to put the new heater on a timer so (off heating season) you still get that buffer? Let it preheat for an hour or so before your heavy water use periods.
Does it make sense energy wise to put the new heater on a timer so (off heating season) you still get that buffer? Let it preheat for an hour or so before your heavy water use periods.
Yes , the plumber said during the off season it will let the water warm some in the tank before entering the main tank. I'm not sure about the timer.
I replaced a State Select brand in 2014 that was new in 2009 after it leaked. I wouldn't recommend that brand! My research indicated most of the ones today seem to fail about when the warranty expires, 6 years. We are on rural water and also have a softener. It was a rusty mess! I went with the 85 gal Marathon style plastic model
Thanks for the info I was looking at a used state select on cl. I will stay away from that one. I never heard of the plastic model. That may be a good choice.
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