What Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Rusty on Its Base

Your water heater works best with consistent maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the time to respond quickly and take care of common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can take root in several 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 suggest contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to learn if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This happens after the anode rod fails. When functioning like it’s supposed to, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.

When your tank has corroded, 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 a few other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Hints You Need Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to break, these are frequent signs that it’s about to happen.

1. Age

A quality water heater typically lives for about 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a smart idea to research replacing it even if it’s still working. 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 unpleasant or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Reduced Hot Water

Your water heater should produce 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 a new one.

4. Strange Sounds

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

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

Our trusted plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you choose between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are a few 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 useful 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 preferred for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be installed in tight 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 good to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Outstanding 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 get a brand new one installed at no surprise 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 swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in Canada, give us a call at 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.

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