What to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusty Underneath
Your water heater does best with consistent maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to notice quickly and resolve common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in various places on your water heater and may be the result of ill-fitted connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank might be pointing to 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 rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When operating as usual, the anode rod filters 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 breaks.
Here are a small number of 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 tell you exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are telltale signs that it’s close.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater usually lives for about 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a smart idea to consider replacing it even if it’s still in decent shape. 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 rusted down. Your water may taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and could also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should produce ample hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you learn yours is struggling even with minimal use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Strange Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod malfunctions, sediment collects in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can lead to banging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Right for My Residence?
Our qualified plumbers will discuss what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you pick between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are some 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 better-suited 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 quickly 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 are without a tank, they can be hidden in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an added bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s good to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Trust 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, 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 earn 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 ability to change 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 ready to help however we can.
*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.
