What to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusting on the Bottom

Your water heater runs best with regular maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to react quickly and fix common 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 damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be evidence of a more complex problem. We recommend contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to discover if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When operating normally, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.

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

Here are several other signs that your water heater is on its way out.

4 Clues You Call for Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A dependable water heater typically survives for close to 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 rusting. Your water might taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Reduced Hot Water

Your water heater should transport ample hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you discover yours is struggling even with minimal use, it’s time to get an upgrade.

4. Odd Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work harder to heat water. This can lead to banging or knocking sounds, as well as higher energy bills.

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

Our qualified plumbers will discuss 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 few of the key differences.

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters are the most common choice. 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 sizeable 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 squeezed in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s wise to note they’re typically 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, 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 receive a brand new one installed at no surprise cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to subtract 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 option to adjust your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s evolving needs.**

To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in the U.S., give us a call at 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.

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