Your water heater does best with routine maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to respond quickly and take care of likely 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 damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more complex problem. We recommend calling a professional like Comfort Masters Service Experts to learn if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When working like it’s supposed to, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.
When your tank has rusted, 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 some other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.
4 Signs You Call for Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to fail, these are typical signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A quality water heater usually survives for about 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a wise idea to research replacing it even if it’s still running. That way, you can avoid not having 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 could taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and might 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 minimal use, it’s time to get a replacement.
4. Strange Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment collects 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 bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My Home?
Our trusted plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into 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 type. They have a dedicated supply of hot water, which is tailor-made 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 often than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are used for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be tucked away in tight spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an added bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s smart to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Trust Comfort Masters Service Experts for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, especially 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 additional 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 change 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 Wheeling, give us a call at 847-250-6729 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.