What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusty Underneath

Your water heater performs best with routine maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to notice quickly and fix potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can appear in various places on your water heater and can be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more serious problem. We recommend contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to discover if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This happens after the anode rod fails. When working normally, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.

When your tank has rust, it’s smart to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank breaks.

Here are some other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Signs You Need Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to break, these are typical signs that it’s going out.

1. Age

A quality water heater usually survives for around 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a smart idea to research replacing it even if it’s still running. That way, you can avoid not having hot water or a mess if the tank leaks.

2. Rusty Water

This is evidence that your water heater’s tank is rusting. Your water may taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and might also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

Your water heater should produce ample hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find yours is struggling even with low use, it’s time to get a new one.

4. Odd Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod malfunctions, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can result in clanging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My Residence?

Our well-trained plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you choose between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are a number 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 useful for heavy or frequent use. While these water heaters are the most affordable, they have some downsides. They are sizeable and constantly heating water, which is less energy efficient. And with a life span of about 12 years, they must be replaced much sooner than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are valued for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they lack a tank, they can be placed in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they typically last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s smart to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Depend on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, particularly 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 additional 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 more about our process for water heater replacement in the U.S., give us a call at today. Our Experts are willing to help however we can.

*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.