I need to replace the water heater in the house I recently moved in to. Anyone have any recommendations as far as brands or features go? I am looking for something about 40-50 gallons in size, natural gas, and I have heard that it is best to go with the 12-year warrenty models.

Also, I have seen a few models with these supposedly "smart" temperature gauges that are supposed to reduce energy usage- anyone know if those are worth the extra money or not?

Thanks!

You've probably already chosen something, but as a green enthusiast, I'll point you here to look at solar water heating! They are totally worth the money and will give you an actual return on your investment. Plus you can get tax rebates and sometimes grants to implement. Good luck!

Don't overlook Sears. I needed a 66 gallon electric, and they were the cheapest for one.

If you'll be installing the heater yourself, you may want to get one whose fittings line up with the old one's.

Heaters with 9-12 year warranties usually have two anode rods, one that screws into its own hole and usually a second one that goes into the inlet our outlet pipe. Changing the anode(s) every six years or so should let the tank last several decades.

As Blairsey said, solar water heating can be great, and our system probably saves us $20-30 a month on electricity (no gas available). But costs can range anywhere from $300 to $5,000, depending on whether you DIY or have it installed or need only a simple system (freezing is rare) or something elaborate (colder climates require drain-down or drain-back freeze protection -- drain-back is the best). With gas heat or really cold climates, it's probably best to make the solar preheat the water in a separate tank (no electricity or gas fed to it), but with electric you can get by with a single 50-80 gallon tank. Single-tank systems require a special tank, but instead of spending $1,000 for one, modify a regular tank by cutting its dip tube, disconnecting the bottom heater, and using the drain outlet as both the cold water inlet & outlet to the heat exchanger or solar pump. Sometimes you can get the solar collectors for free because people toss them when their systems break down and they're shocked at the high cost of a replacement solar tank.

Yah, Sears.com is very good store & and they were the cheapest for one. In this store we will get all kind of Home products, kitchen items etc., I have purchased few months ago 'Kenmore Power Miser 12, 40 gallon Electric Water Heater' for $349.99 by going through Rebationdotcom. By going through Rebationdotcom i have got 5% Cash Back. In this store the prices will start from very low upto highest price for all the items. Even I like so much these products.