What Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Rusted on the Bottom
Your water heater performs best with steady maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the time to respond quickly and resolve likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in several places on your water heater and might be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be pointing to a more serious problem. We recommend hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to determine if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.
When your tank has rust, it’s wise to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank breaks.
Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is breaking down.
4 Clues You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are telltale signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater typically lives for about 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a good idea to consider replacing it even if it’s still in decent shape. That way, you can avoid losing out on hot water or a mess if the tank leaks.
2. Rusty Water
This is evidence that your water heater’s tank is corroding. Your water might taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Less Hot Water
Your water heater should transport a steady supply of hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you discover yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get a replacement.
4. Odd Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod breaks, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can produce clanking or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My Residence?
Our experienced plumbers will discuss what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you choose between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are a few of the key differences.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters are the most common model. They have a dedicated supply of hot water, which is ideal for heavy or frequent use. While these water heaters are the most affordable, they have some downsides. They are big and constantly heating water, which is less energy efficient. And with a life span of about 12 years, they must be replaced more regularly than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be hidden in convenient spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they frequently last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s important to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Excellent Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, putting in a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, especially if you want a tankless model.
That’s why we offer an Advantage Program™ for your water heater. For one low monthly cost, you’ll receive a brand new one installed at no extra cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to keep any applicable rebates.
As a valued member, you’ll have access to 24/7 emergency service at no charge. Diagnostic, parts and labor fees are waived as well.* You’ll even have the opportunity to swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s changing needs.**
To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in the U.S., give us a call at 866-397-3787 today. Our Experts are happy to help however we can.
*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.
