What to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusting on the Bottom

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

Rust can appear in different places on your water heater and might be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be signs of a more complicated problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to determine if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This appears after the anode rod fails. When operating normally, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.

When your tank has rust, it’s wise to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank fails.

Here are a few other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.

4 Signs You Need Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A well-maintained water heater usually lasts for close to 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 in decent shape. That way, you can avoid losing out on 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 might taste unpleasant or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

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

4. Weird Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can produce banging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.

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

Our well-trained plumbers will share what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you pick 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 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 on demand. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be placed in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an added bonus, they typically last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s important to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Depend on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Quality Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, particularly 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 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 flexibility to swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s evolving 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.