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

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

Rust can take root in several places on your water heater and can be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be signs of a more complicated problem. We recommend calling a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to find out if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning like it’s supposed to, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.

When your tank has rusted, it’s time 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 on its way out.

4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to break, these are frequent signs that it’s going out.

1. Age

A quality water heater usually lives for around 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a good idea to look into 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 rusting. Your water might taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and could also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

Your water heater should produce ample 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. Odd 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 lead to 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 looking into 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 tailor-made 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 more regularly than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they are without a tank, they can be installed in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they generally 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 replenished with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Depend on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 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, particularly if you want a tankless model.

That’s why we offer an Advantage Program™ for your water heater. For one single 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 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 option to change your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s changing 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 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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