Your water heater does best with consistent maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to notice quickly and fix common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can grow in several places on your water heater and can be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more serious problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Orangutan Home Services to learn if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When operating like it’s supposed to, the anode rod filters 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 beginning to fail.
4 Clues You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to break, these are obvious signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A quality water heater usually lasts for close to 10 years. If yours is around 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 not having 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 unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should produce enough hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find yours is struggling even with minimal use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Abnormal Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment appears 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 Right for My House?
Our expert plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you decide between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are some 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 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 often than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are valued for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be squeezed in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they generally last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s wise to note they’re frequently more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Orangutan Home Services for Quality Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting 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 be entitled to a brand new one installed at no extra cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to keep 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 ability to update your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s evolving needs.**
To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in Tempe, give us a call at 602-906-0111 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.