I have a 30-gallon Rheem (Model 813V30D) water heater that is almost 18 years old in a closet below my A/C unit. I live on the second floor of a condominium complex. It’s NOT giving me any trouble. Like they say, “If its not broken don’t fix it.”I have some questions…1. Should I replace it now before it gives me a problem? 2. How long will a water heater last?3. If and when it does brake, what’s the worst that could happen?Thank you,Scotty

Should I replace it now before it gives me a problem?.
There is no reason to replace a water heater unless it is leaking.


How long will a water heater last?
There is no way to tell. My Rheem is 24 years old

If and when it does brake, what's the worst that could happen?
Most likely a leak will develop. Your water heater being on the second floor should be sitting in a drain pan. If so, and a leak develops, no damage should result from the leak. There are water alarms you can purchase. Might be a worth while investment.

Leaks always develop at welds, no one knows why or how long it will take for one to develop.

Theoretically a pipe or the tank could burst but the chances are remote. Should that happen, substantial damage could result to the unit below you. You should check your home owners policy to make sure that you are covered for such event.

PS
If you have a clothes washer, check the hoses. Replace if they are very old. If you are going to be away for any length of time it is a good idea to turn off the water if it is convenient to do so.

See this post.
https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/plumbing/must-living-right-577089.html

Thank you so much for your help. I really do appreciate your knowledge.

I had to learn the hard way,190,000 gallons of water and a $100,000 dollars worth of damage. Don't even go to the Grocery Store without turning off the water. Just kidding about the Grocery Store. Thanks to a Washer Hose break and
being away for a couple months.

Plumbing is like health: it is all about prevention. If emergency happens, you will pay twice a much

Such water heater has around 5 years warranty. 18 years is very old. I would not take the chance. Take care of it now, before it is too late

Hope that helps

Milo

Thank you for ALL your feedback. I’m going to replace my water heater.