Well, I’m still trying to get my wife to explain to me clearly what the sales pitch was. The house “warranty” (insurance, really) master document states that heater timers are not covered, but it doesn’t say that removing and re-installing the timer is not covered.
I’m not sure I would attempt to replace a large gas water heater like this one. I was never a big DIYer, but now that I’m getting old I’m also concerned about personal injury.