Your water heater does best with routine maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to react quickly and fix common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in several places on your water heater and may be the result of ill-fitted connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be pointing to a more serious problem. We recommend hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to determine if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When operating as usual, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.
When your tank has rust, it’s wise 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 beginning to fail.
4 Signs You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are frequent signs that it’s close.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater usually lives for close to 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a wise 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 odd 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 learn yours is struggling even with infrequent use, it’s time to get a replacement.
4. Odd Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod malfunctions, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can lead to clanging or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My Home?
Our expert 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 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 ideal 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 prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they are without a tank, they can be placed in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they typically last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s helpful to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Quality Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 receive 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 opportunity to change 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 Calgary, give us a call at 403-279-5760 today. Our Experts are happy to help however we can.
*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.