Can my 40 gal Richmond Water Heater convert to Natural Gas?

by Water Heaters on July 12, 2010

Single mom needs your help! Estimate 0, to replace existing lp water heater with natural gas one and connect to furnace and water heater. I heard there are conversion kits? If not, can I buy a natural gas water heater on my own for less, his charge is 0, uninstalled. Please advise. Anything may help. I really hope I can convert my current water heater. It’s only 6 years old.
I was told it was not convertible! The book said that the 40, 50 & 60 gallon heaters were convertible. He said he didn’t think so. Do you think he is trying to rip me off? Should I get another estimate? He said it would be 0 to hook up water heater and furnace if the water heater was convertable.
Im converting because this is a mobile home used as a cabin in the north woods. Five years ago when I was working I paid 0 to have the gasline brought from the road to the place. I am now getting the connection done because Wisconsin Public Service is now offering a 0 rebate to anyone who converts. I was told natural gas is a better choice in the long run. Plus it’s used very sparingly. A few winter weekends snomobiling… Am I doing the right thing. (Cory if you read this, please respond, I appreciate your knowledge)


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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }

Corky R July 12, 2010 at 12:11 am

I can tell you that water heater prices have skyrocketed in the last 5 – 8 years. This price increase happened because of new safety codes by which all heaters have to be manufactured. If yours is 6 years old, it’s probably one of the new ones that lights with a push button grille lighter, (the sparker type). The entire burn chamber is now sealed so that flames cannot get out, as they could before with the opening around the burner and pilot gas lines. A standard 40 gal., 6 year warranty unit for natural gas is right around $400/$420 plus installation. It should, however, be possible to convert yours if the orifice is available from the company, which is who I’d call first. There should be an 800 number on the information tag applied to the side of the old unit that you can call and get tech help from their factory guys. Most of them are quite knowledgeable, especially about their own products. You’ll need the model, serial #’s and gallonage. Just wondering why you’re wanting to convert to natural from LP

Sweetdaddy Rex July 12, 2010 at 12:11 am

EASY ! Yes, you can convert it to natural gas. Go to ACE Hardware, and buy the kit . ( small brass "jets"). Almost any place that sells water heaters, have these kits ! ( About $ 10.00 ) ! Easy to install !

donnie m July 12, 2010 at 12:11 am

I am not for sure but i have heard that you have to change the orifice Go to davesrepair.com and you will get some insight of this issue.

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