Kenmore Power Miser 12, 80 Gallon, Electric Water Heater Review

We had this water heater installed when we bought our house 4 years ago and have had no problems untill now.  Unfortunatly the heating element went out, when i went to buy a replacement i found i couldnt buy one. So i called around in all the surrounding areas and sears stores, again with no luck. No sears store carries a replacement element.  I also sopke with 3 service companies who stated to me that the replacement elements (off brand) would not work in the kenmore brand.  I found the only way to get a replacement element was to go online or call the sears parts and service department.  And unfortunatly it will now take 4 days for it to be shipped to me.  This means no showers or baths and no hot water for 4 days.  I have 2 kids of my own and run a daycare out of my home this is a HUGE inconvience for me.  As a sugestion to Sears and Kenmore please make these elements available in your stores in the future.  This is something that needs to be replaced quickly when it goes out.  And should be readily available.