What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusted Underneath

Your water heater works best with routine maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to respond quickly and fix likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can form in different places on your water heater and may be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank might be evidence of a more complex problem. We would advise hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to discover if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When working normally, the anode rod pushes out 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 on its way out.

4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A quality water heater generally survives for about 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a smart idea to consider replacing it even if it’s still working. That way, you can avoid a lack of 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 could taste unpleasant or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Decreased Hot Water

Your water heater should provide a steady supply of 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 a replacement.

4. Strange Sounds

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

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

Our expert plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about 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 model. 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 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 on demand. Because they lack a tank, they can be installed in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they generally last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s important to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since quite a few 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, putting in a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, in particular if you want a tankless model.

That’s why we offer an Advantage Program™ for your water heater. For one simple monthly cost, you’ll earn a brand new one installed at no added cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to include 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 swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn everything 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.

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