What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusted on Its Base

Your water heater works best with regular maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to respond quickly and take care of potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can take root in various places on your water heater and could be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more serious problem. We would advise hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to find out if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When working as usual, 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 fails.

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

4 Clues You Call for Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A quality water heater usually lives for around 10 years. If yours is approaching this age or older, it’s a smart idea to research replacing it even if it’s still running. 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 rusting. Your water could taste strange 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 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 a replacement.

4. Odd Sounds

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

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

Our well-trained plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about 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 type. They have a dedicated supply of hot water, which is useful 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 regularly 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 an added bonus, they usually 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 replenished with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

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

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, putting in 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 receive 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 opportunity to update 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 the U.S., give us a call at today. Our Experts are happy 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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