What It Means When Your Water Heater Has a Rusty Bottom

Your water heater performs best with routine maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to react quickly and take care of common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can appear in several places on your water heater and could be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more complicated problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Eveready Service Experts to discover if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning normally, 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 gives out.

Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.

4 Clues You Call for Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A dependable water heater usually survives for about 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a good idea to research replacing it even if it’s still in decent shape. 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 can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Reduced Hot Water

Your water heater should provide 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 low use, it’s time to get a replacement.

4. Abnormal Sounds

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

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

Our well-trained plumbers will discuss 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 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 used for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they lack a tank, they can be tucked away in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they usually last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s good to note they’re frequently more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Depend on Eveready Service Experts for Excellent Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 simple monthly cost, you’ll earn a brand new one installed at no added cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to subtract 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 replace 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 Richmond, give us a call at 804-548-4480 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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