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

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

Rust can appear in several places on your water heater and might be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be pointing to a more serious problem. We recommend calling a professional like Roy Inch & Sons Home Services by Enercare to learn if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When operating like it’s supposed to, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.

When your tank has corroded, it’s wise to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank breaks.

Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.

4 Clues You Call for Water Heater Replacement

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

1. Age

A dependable water heater typically lasts for around 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a wise idea to look into 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 might taste unusual 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. Less Hot Water

Your water heater should deliver a steady supply of 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 an upgrade.

4. Weird Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment builds up 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 larger energy bills.

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

Our trusted 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 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 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 when told. Because they are without a tank, they can be placed in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an added bonus, they generally 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 balanced with rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Call Roy Inch & Sons Home Services by Enercare for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 single monthly cost, you’ll get a brand new one installed at no extra 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 flexibility to adjust 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 London, give us a call at 226-270-1164 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.