New Water Heater?

[GregMo]

I have a 40 gal electric water heater in a former rental house which has hard water. I now have a water softener system, but suspect the water heater might be full of deposits. In the past few months, it has gotten to where water doesn't stay hot through a shower, and recently the pressure relief valve started leaking water. So far, I have been turning off the main supply valve to prevent wasting water, but am now wanting to fix the problem.
I tried draining the tank through the valve at the bottom, but only a trickle of water comes out. I assume this means that the bottom part of the tank is clogged with sediment and probably the lower element is not working.

Given these facts, I'm wondering if it's worth it for me to buy a tool to remove the element or an ohmeter to check it...or should I just replace the whole water heater? It's about 10 years old and has been operating with hard water most of that time.

Thanks for any advice.

[Ejbogusch]

I would remove the elements and the drain valve. Having the hole for the element is a plus when it comes to removing sediment build up. With a rod and a garden hose you should be able to remove most of the sediment.

I would replace both elements and the T&P valve. I don't know if your T&P valve is leaking on temperature, pressure, or is just corroded. A pressure check of your incoming water pressure should help you decide where the problem lies.

For about thirty dollars you should be able to have your heater back up to par!