Your water heater does best with regular maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to respond quickly and resolve possible problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can grow in several places on your water heater and could be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank might be evidence of a more complicated problem. We suggest contacting a professional like Gordon's Service Experts to learn if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When operating as usual, the anode rod pushes out 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 some 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 share exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are obvious signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A dependable water heater usually survives for close to 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a good idea to research replacing it even if it’s still running. 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 rusting. Your water may taste unpleasant 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. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should deliver 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 an upgrade.
4. Strange Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod malfunctions, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can lead to clanging or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My House?
Our expert plumbers will recommend 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 number 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 large and constantly heating water, which is less energy efficient. And with a life span of about 12 years, they must be replaced much sooner than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are used for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they are without a tank, they can be tucked away in smaller 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 helpful 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 Gordon's Service Experts 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 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 opportunity 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 Oklahoma City, give us a call at 405-432-2197 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.