Howdy all, can anyone tell me if a 50 gallon electric water heater that consumes 17 amps of electricity while on is normal?

In trying to figure out why my electric bill is HIGHER after getting a new ac installed, the tech measured the readings of the air handler and it was one or 2 amps, the compressor was about the same, but the water heater seemed really high to me.

Perhaps it's getting old and needs to be replaced. It's about 10 years old, I have no idea how long they are supposed to last.

I have been thinking about getting a tankless water heater for awhile, to save space, this may be the time.

But don't those things suck up electricity?

Any answers appreciated as always.

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