What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusting Underneath
Your water heater runs best with consistent maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to react quickly and resolve potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in different places on your water heater and can be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be pointing to a more complex problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to learn if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.
When your tank has rust, it’s smart 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 beginning to fail.
4 Hints You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are typical signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A dependable water heater usually lives 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 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 corroding. Your water could 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. Decreased Hot Water
Your water heater should transport enough hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Odd Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can result in banging or knocking sounds, as well as higher energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My House?
Our well-trained 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 number of the key differences.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters are the most common type. 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 sizeable 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 used for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they are without a tank, they can be installed in tight 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 helpful to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since many 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, 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 added 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 adjust your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s changing needs.**
To learn more about our process for water heater replacement in the U.S., give us a call at 866-397-3787 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.
