reviewer
SteveinPA
Bethlehem, PA

A Pretty good value...

4 star rating


DEC
31
2008
I had to replace my 66 gallon A.O. Smith water heater after 23 years of use. In this economy I did not want to pay the price of their new line and, I wanted to install it myself, so I chose the Sears Power Miser 12 - 55 gallon unit. I feel for the price it represented a good value. I debated on buying the nine year warranty unit. It too is a good option and could save you $60 bucks if you are on a tight budget. The Kenmore seems solidly made and I like the idea of the ridgid foam insulation as opposed to the old fiberglass bat type insulation which can become saturated by leaking water and will never fully dry out. The wiring explanation in the Owners Guide leaves a bit to be desired for a novice installer. My old two wire set-up had to be connected like this: Yellow (heater) to white (house 220) and blue/black (heater) to black (house 220). Ground to ground of course. Try setting the thermostats to 135 degrees if your incoming water is VERY cold as mine is. The factory 120 degree setting was just too low. We have only used it for a week in our two person household. Water temp at the faucet in the closest powder room comes out initially at about 130 degrees. If you pay close attention to your old set up I would rate a fairly easy install for a experienced do-it-yourselfer. If you are not comfortable working with the 220V electric, hire a PRO for that part. The plumbing is pretty basic. If the is one thing to wish for it's greater energy efficiency. In my area with utility rates increasing I estimate it will cost me about $600 per year to heat water. I'm looking forward to many years of long, hot showers.



I_thumb_up Kenmore Power Miser 12, 55 gal., Electric Water Heater is recommended by SteveinPA

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