Water tank replacement options

[dextrous]

If it's done properly by someone who is competent (has a G3 certificate)and serviced regularly, then it's as reliable as any other system.

I'd get 3 quotes for the purpose of price and method/specification comparison.

If you go for the nearly new one, I'd try to get some kind of written guarantee for parts and labour for the first year or so from your plumber.

 

[robbie77]

Will do.
I just read that they are a fair bit more expensive to run. Does this fit in with other experiences?

The other option is an electric shower (there is one already there) but the wife has her heart set on a power shower type!

 

[dextrous]

Can't really see that they'd be much more expensive to run - if you use a given volume of hot water, it requires the same amount of heat to replace it. In the case of a shower, you are likely to use more water, 'cos it comes out quicker, and it will cost more in this respect.

If the pressure is fine (those who quote you will determine this - check that they actually measure it in addition to the flow rate), then you'll have a mains pressure shower which will be far superior to any power or electric shower.

For clarity -

Power shower = pumped water
Electric shower (instantaneous heat) = heated mains water, which requires a lot of electriciy and thus big cables!