What Rust on the Base of Your Water Heater Means

Your water heater runs best with steady maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the time to react quickly and take care of potential 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 might be pointing to a more complex problem. We would advise hiring a professional like Midway Services to determine if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When working like it’s supposed to, the anode rod pushes out 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 fails.

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 share exactly when it’s going to fail, these are obvious signs that it’s beginning.

1. Age

A dependable water heater usually lasts for around 10 years. If yours is around 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 may taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Decreased 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 learn yours is struggling even with less use, it’s time to get an upgrade.

4. Weird Sounds

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

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

Our trusted plumbers will share what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into 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 better-suited for heavy or frequent use. While these water heaters are the most affordable, they have some downsides. They are big 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 don’t have a tank, they can be tucked away in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they frequently last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s wise to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Trust Midway Services 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, in particular 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 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 option to swap 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 Clearwater, give us a call at 727-219-2471 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.