Need advice, electric water heater replacement

[Yenlan Patton]

Is it worth to risk to buy from individual ? Ive found from one app, one guy is selling brand new in box 2015 electric water heater for $250 each. so if i buy it i only have 3 years left on the warranty. Any thought ?

[Peter B.]

There really isn't to much to an electric water heater. A thermostat, 2 elements and tank. If the tank is shot, you will find out immediately. Elements and thermostat are inexpensive and easy to replace. The risk is time really, as warranty would cover anything big.