Can I get money for an old water heater?

Author: Prof. Terrill Rice Sr.  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Water heaters can be worth anywhere between $7–30, depending on the size and materials its made from. The price will depend on whether the tank is recycled as a whole, or if the more valuable parts are first separated. Before you visit, check the current rates for each type of metal currently on the market.

Can you sell an old hot water heater?

Donation or local selling is possible if the appliance is still in good condition. Otherwise, recycling, scraping, or throwing it away might be better.

Can you make money off an old water heater?

Many homeowners may be unaware that old water heaters can be sold as scrap metal. Most U.S. hot water storage tanks are constructed of either polyethylene, fiberglass, galvanized steel, or steel. Scrap yards typically estimate what they will pay after weighing the entire unit, basing the price on current market values.

Does Home Depot take back old water heaters?

Our stores and distribution centers recycle scrap metal from other returned and unsellable products that are at least 75% metal such as ladders and water heaters.

Are water heaters worth money?

Scrap Water Heater Value

Water heaters can be worth anywhere between $7–30, depending on the size and materials its made from.

Scrap Secret: Making A Profit on Water Heaters

What is the life expectancy of a water heater?

While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.

Does Lowes take back water heaters?

Most products sold at Lowe's can be exchanged or refunded up to 90 days after purchase if new and unused. The grace period is 30 days for room air conditioners, water heaters, TVs, electronics, and lawn products.

How to scrap a hot water tank?

The process is simple, and you may earn money by selling the components in your water heater to the scrap yard. Most yards accept all types of metal and estimate an approximate value for each. Since most water heater parts are made of aluminum and steel, do not expect to make a large amount of money.

Can a water heater go in a dumpster?

In most cases, you are permitted to dispose of a water heater in a residential rental dumpster. Before tossing it, you should empty it completely. If your water heater is old, it could contain asbestos or other hazardous materials that are banned from landfills.

Can you sell an old water tank?

Sell Your Unwanted Tank Risk-Free

If you have a storage tank or a complete tank farm that is no longer required and would like a reliable, risk free sale then please give us a call on 01502 710100 or simply complete the form below. We pay top prices for your unwanted second hand storage tanks.

How much copper is in a water heater?

Some of the gas line fittings are brass (although those aren't part of the WH itself) and the drain spigot is almost always brass. So adding up that small amount of copper tubing and the fraction of brass that is copper, around 150 grams or 5 ounces of copper.

What can I use an old water heater for?

  • Turn it into a solar water heater. ...
  • Use your old water heater as a tempering tank. ...
  • Convert your heater into a wooden stove. ...
  • Turn your heater into a cool grill. ...
  • Cut your old heater down into an outdoor fire pit. ...
  • Convert your water heater into a garden heater. ...
  • Shape your heater into flower pots.

How much is a 50 gallon hot water heater worth?

The average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $700 to $1,800 for an electric unit or $1,000 to $3,100+ for a gas unit, including labor. A 50-gallon water heater costs $500 to $2,100 for the unit alone, depending on the fuel type, energy efficiency, features, and brand.

How to get rid of a water tank?

You can recycle your old water tank instead of modifying or transforming it. You must also cut or disassemble the item to a manageable size. Then you can take it to a junkyard or other recycling facility near you. Moreover, moving a large item can be time-consuming and exhausting necessitating the use of a trailer.

How much is a 40 gallon hot water heater worth?

The cost to replace a 40-gallon water heater is $600 to $1,600 for an electric unit or $900 to $3,000+ for a gas unit, including installation labor. A 40-gallon water heater costs $400 to $2,000 for the unit alone, depending on the brand, features, energy efficiency, and fuel type.

Can I get rid of my hot water tank?

If you're upgrading your heating system and no longer require your hot water cylinder, a professional can remove it for you.

What metal is in a water heater?

Your water heater's anode rod is a simple thing -- a steel core wire coated with another metal, usually magnesium, but sometimes aluminum or zinc. It is inserted through an opening in the outside of your water heater so that water forms a connection between the anode rod and the inner walls of the tank.

Can I get money for my old furnace?

A good used furnace can easily get $100 to $200 from someone who needs one as long as the heat exchanger isn't cracked, even if someone offers you $50 and hauls it off it's better than the $5 or $10 a recycling yard might offer for one.

Does Lowes remove old water heaters?

On the day of your appointment, a professional independent installer will deliver and install your new water heater. When the project is complete, they'll haul away your old unit.

What stores do cash returns without a receipt?

In most cases, Walmart will allow cash back without receipt on an item under ten dollars including tax. There are exceptions, and it's solely at the discretion of store management. Frankly, our service desk associates recognize several known shoplifters and handle their returns differently.

Can I return a water heater to Home Depot?

90 Days. Most merchandise can be returned within 90 days with proof of purchase to The Home Depot unless noted below. The Home Depot reserves the right to decline returns where a product does not have a manufacturing defect but has been damaged by the customer, or to prevent fraud or abuse.

What brand water heaters last the longest?

Bradford White water heaters are known for their durability and sturdy construction, providing lasting performance for years. In business since 1881, the company has a long reputation for selling quality products for both residential and commercial use.

How much should I spend on a water heater?

Naturally, tanks that heat more gallons of water typically have a higher price point, so the larger the tank size, the more you can expect to pay. For example, the average 40-gallon water heater installation cost runs between $1,000 and $2,500, while its 80-gallon counterpart runs between $2,650 and $3,910.

Should I replace my 20 year old water heater?

Absolutely! After 20 years, your tank water heater is well past its life expectancy. If you have a tankless water heater, it's approaching its life expectancy. At this point, you should expect additional repairs from wear and tear.

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