What It Means When Your Water Heater Has a Rusty Bottom

Your water heater does best with steady maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to respond quickly and resolve potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can appear in various places on your water heater and might be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be signs of a more serious problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to learn if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When operating as usual, the anode rod removes 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 a small number of other signs that your water heater is on its way out.

4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A dependable water heater typically lives for close to 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a wise idea to look into replacing it even if it’s still working. That way, you can avoid not having 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 may taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

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

4. Odd Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment collects in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can result in clanging or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.

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

Our well-trained plumbers will recommend 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 a number 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 tailor-made 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 preferred for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they are without a tank, they can be tucked away in cozy 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 good to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since many 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, putting in 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 low monthly cost, you’ll get a brand new one installed at no surprise cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to include 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 swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn the details about our process for water heater replacement in Fort Lauderdale, give us a call at 954-736-4314 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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