What It Means When Your Water Heater Has a Rusty Bottom

Your water heater does best with routine maintenance from a professional 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 take root in various places on your water heater and might be the result of ill-fitted connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank might be signs of a more complex problem. We would advise calling a professional like Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts to determine if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When working as usual, the anode rod pushes out 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 breaks.

Here are several other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Signs You Call for Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A dependable water heater generally lives for about 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a smart idea to consider 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 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 transport 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 less use, it’s time to get an upgrade.

4. Weird Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment collects 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 bigger energy bills.

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

Our experienced plumbers will discuss what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering 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 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 more often than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are used for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they lack a tank, they can be placed in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they usually last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s smart to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Trust Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 single monthly cost, you’ll be entitled to a brand new one installed at no added cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to hold onto 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 replace your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn more about our process for water heater replacement in Windsor, give us a call at 226-773-3357 today. Our Experts are willing to help however we can.


*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.


chat now widget box