Sears told us our water heater was under warranty, but they had to send a technician to inspect it for a cost of $89. The tech came out and confirmed the unit was leaking. Not too hard since it was pouring water out the bottom! Eventually after an hour on the phone, Sears told us they would not warranty the unit because we didn't have the receipt, and thanks for the non-refundable $89. Total thieves and bait-and-switch! BTW It was within the warranty period! They just lost a lifetime customer! After dealing with Sears over a day and a half (they were stalling by trying to get us to buy a new water heater from them), we eventually got an independent licensed plumber to come out and do the job. Goodbye Sears!