What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusty on the Bottom

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

Rust can appear in several places on your water heater and can be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be signs of a more complex problem. We recommend calling a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to find out if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When operating normally, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.

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

Here are several other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.

4 Hints You Need Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A quality water heater typically lasts for around 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a wise idea to consider 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 might taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and may 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 discover yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get a new one.

4. Strange Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can produce clanging or knocking sounds, as well as higher energy bills.

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My Home?

Our well-trained plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you decide between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are some of the key differences.

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters are the most common type. They have a dedicated supply of hot water, which is tailor-made for heavy or frequent use. While these water heaters are the most affordable, they have some downsides. They are large 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 directed to. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be tucked away in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s important to note they’re frequently more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

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

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting 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 single monthly cost, you’ll be entitled to a brand new one installed at no surprise cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to hold onto 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 growing needs.**

To learn the details 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.