What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusty on Its Base

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

Rust can grow in several places on your water heater and might be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be pointing to a more complicated problem. We suggest contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to discover if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning like it’s supposed to, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.

When your tank has rusted, 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 few other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

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 common signs that it’s going out.

1. Age

A quality water heater typically survives for about 10 years. If yours is approaching this age or older, it’s a wise idea to look into replacing it even if it’s still working. 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 corroding. Your water may taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

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

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 harder to heat water. This can result in banging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.

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

Our expert plumbers will discuss what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering 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 tailor-made 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 often than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they are without a tank, they can be tucked away in convenient spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they typically last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s helpful to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Quality 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 receive 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 option to replace your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s changing 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.