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

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

Rust can grow in several 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 evidence of a more complicated problem. We would advise calling a professional like Coastal Service Experts to determine if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When working as usual, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.

When your tank has rust, 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 several other signs that your water heater is on its way out.

4 Clues You Call for Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to break, these are typical signs that it’s close.

1. Age

A well-maintained water heater typically lasts for close to 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a good idea to consider 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 rusting. Your water could taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Reduced Hot Water

Your water heater should provide ample hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get a new one.

4. Odd Sounds

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

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

Our trusted plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you pick 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 model. They have a dedicated supply of hot water, which is better-suited 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 regularly than a tankless model.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are valued for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they are without a tank, they can be hidden in smaller 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 important 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.

Trust Coastal Service Experts 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, particularly 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 additional 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 option to swap 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 Savannah, give us a call at 912-208-2399 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.