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

Your water heater does best with consistent maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to react quickly and take care of potential 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 leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be evidence of a more serious problem. We recommend hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to learn if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.

When your tank has rusted, 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 several other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.

4 Clues You Need Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to fail, these are obvious signs that it’s about to happen.

1. Age

A dependable water heater typically lasts for about 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a good 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 rusted down. Your water may 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. Reduced Hot Water

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

4. Abnormal Sounds

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

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

Our qualified plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering 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 much sooner than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are used for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be squeezed 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 good to note they’re largely 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 for Excellent Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 get a brand new one installed at no additional 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 flexibility to update 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 Denver, give us a call at 303-647-5853 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.


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