Rheemglas Standard lifespan ???

[ekash]

New guy here with a question. I've got a pair of Rheemglas Standard electric (81V52D & 81V80D) plumbed in series in a system using a Bell & Gosset circulator with softened well water. These all have been in service now for almost 21 years. I've been their current owner for the last 14 years and have periodically flushed both tanks and never noticed any visible amount of sediment while doing so. I was wondering what for service life should I expect from these units? I'm not too concerned about the heating elements, they can be replaced. More concerned about them developing a leak than anything else. And not to complain but for what reason is it that I'm not getting any noticeable sediment in the tanks? Could it be since it's a circulating system? I had a fellow help me replace my submersible pump a couple years ago and he informed me that conventional electric water heater prices were on the rise do to all the energy conserving regulations and such. Well just this past weekend in a sale flyer I saw an 80 gallon electric for sale for $800.00. I'm planning on being here for a while and wonder if it might be wise to purchase a pair of replacements before they get anymore expensive and just keep them till I need them ???

 

[CT-18]

I don't do a ton of electric so not sure but 21 years is a lot. You would be hard-pressed to find a gas heater still kicking after 21 years. Most of the sediment I would assume comes from the burner heating the same spot on the tank, you don't have that. Plus most drains are not very bottom of the tank. Have you drained them then turn on the cold to see if anything gets stirred up, that's how I do my gas.

 

[TomFOhio]

21 years is pretty much unheard of these days. If you got the extra money it probably wouldn't hurt to have them on hand. The only thing is the warranty starts when you buy them and not when you put them in. Warranties are usually 6 years unless you buy one with a higher warranty.
Hope this helps.