Performance 38 Gal. Short 3800-Watt Double Element Electric Water Heater with 6-Year Warranty measures 31.5 inches high and 23 inches deep. It provides 38 gallons of heated water via a 3.8 kW double element, operating at 15.83 amps.
Sizing is critical; a tank that is too small leads to cold showers, while one too large wastes energy. Consider heat pump (hybrid) models if replacing electric, as they pay for themselves in energy savings. Available from $489.
Water heaters are the second largest energy user in the home. Heat pump models drastically reduce electricity usage but cost more upfront.
Common Failure Modes
Tank leaks due to internal corrosion are fatal and require complete replacement. Heating elements in electric tanks and thermocouples in gas tanks are common, easily fixable failures.
Sizing is critical; a tank that is too small leads to cold showers, while one too large wastes energy. Consider heat pump (hybrid) models if replacing electric, as they pay for themselves in energy savings.
Tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years on average. Tankless water heaters can last 15 to 20 years. The single most important factor is water quality — hard water dramatically shortens lifespan by accelerating sediment buildup and anode rod consumption.
The Rheem 38 Electric is available at homedepot, starting at $489.
Water heaters are the second largest energy user in the home. Heat pump models drastically reduce electricity usage but cost more upfront.
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