Kitchen Gas Appliances - bradford white

I was given a Bradford White through-the-wall gas water heater about a year and a half ago. Our water heater was put in in '74 so I accepted this gift with visions of having to replace my existing Ruud Pacemaker heater soon. It's been sitting in my basement for this time. As far as I know, it was used just slightly. It looks like it was just installed. My question is, do I replace a dinosaur that seems to be working just fine? If not, is it worth hanging onto this heater? The thing that puzzles me is that if I DO have to install this unit can I vent it up through the chimney like my current situation is or should I send it out the sidewall? Lotta questions I know. Any help would be appreciated.

Eric

Hello: Eric

The only problem I can think of is RUST. Since the tank once had water in it and may still have water in it, it will cause rust.

Eventually, that rust will destroy the tank with tiny holes, making it useless. However, room and space provided, you could use it as an additional hot water storage supply tank or a solar water preheater tank.

Either option will require a circulation pump. Great Do-It-Yourself plumbing project....:)

Regarding the venting system, either method should work correctly but check with local building codes and have the final project checked by the local gas supplying utility or a licensed plumber.

Regards & Good Luck
Gas Appliances Forum Moderator
Tom_Bart....Company Enterprises.....TCB4U2B2B
Energy Conservation Consultant & Natural Gas Appliance Problem Diagnostics Technician.