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No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.

While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.

Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener. 

Newer models are packed with newer technologies that decrease energy consumption and increase output, giving you more bang for your buck in more bills than one. 

If you’re trying to decide whether you want to repair or replace your new heater, consider factors like your utility bills, repair costs, and even your carbon footprint to help you decide whether it makes sense to buy a new one instead.

A larger heater requires a larger breaker—unless there’s one already installed. The longer answer to this question is more nuanced. Do you place demands on the heater at the same time as running other heavy-duty appliances like ovens and washing machines? Do you live in an older home that may not have considered the higher electrical demands we have now? Breakers need to be sized at 125% of the load. To find that load, you should call a local electrical pro.