Start with conditions, not a product
Tank age, venting type, gas or electric supply, and recovery needs all belong in the conversation before a water heater is replaced.
Build a complete scope
- What the supply is for this build era, and whether copper is pinholing
- Whether the failure is a fitting, a valve, or the pressure regulator
- How basement ceilings and finished walls are opened and restored
- Freeze protection for hose bibs and unheated runs at this frost depth
- Permits on a replacement, testing after the work, cleanup, and warranty
Sterling Heights context
A plumbing permit is required for water heater replacement in Sterling Heights, and homes from the 1950s-70s construction wave sometimes need venting or supply-line updates before a modern unit can be installed as designed.