What Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Rusting on Its Base
Your water heater works best with steady maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to notice quickly and resolve likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can grow in various places on your water heater and might be the result of ill-fitted connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be pointing to a more complex problem. We recommend hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to determine if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When functioning normally, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.
When your tank has corroded, it’s smart to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank gives out.
Here are several other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.
4 Signs You Call for Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to fail, these are typical signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater usually lives for about 10 years. If yours is approaching this age or older, it’s a wise idea to research 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 rusting. Your water could taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and could also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should produce a steady supply of hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you discover yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Weird Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod breaks, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work harder to heat water. This can produce banging or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My House?
Our well-trained plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you decide between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are some 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 preferred for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be tucked away in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they frequently last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s good to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting 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 low monthly cost, you’ll earn a brand new one installed at no additional 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 flexibility to adjust your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s evolving 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 ready to help however we can.
*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.
