What Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Rusty on the Bottom

Your water heater does best with consistent maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to respond quickly and resolve potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can take root in several places on your water heater and can be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more complicated problem. We recommend hiring a professional like A1 Chesney Service Experts to discover if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.

When your tank has corroded, it’s a good idea to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank gives out.

Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are common signs that it’s beginning.

1. Age

A quality water heater generally 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 running. 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 especially harmful, it affects your water quality and might also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

Your water heater should provide ample 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. Abnormal Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment collects in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can produce clanging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.

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

Our qualified 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 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 large 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 on demand. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be squeezed in convenient spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they generally last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s helpful to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Depend on A1 Chesney Service Experts for Excellent 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 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 ability to replace 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 Calgary, give us a call at 587-315-5271 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.


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