What to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusted on the Bottom

Your water heater runs best with routine maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the time to respond quickly and resolve potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can appear in several places on your water heater and can be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be evidence of a more serious problem. We would advise calling a professional like Jack Nelson Service Experts to find out if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When functioning normally, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.

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

Here are some other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to fail, these are telltale signs that it’s about to happen.

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 consider 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 corroding. Your water may taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and might also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Decreased Hot Water

Your water heater should provide a steady supply of hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you discover yours is struggling even with minimal use, it’s time to get a new one.

4. Abnormal Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work harder to heat water. This can produce clanking or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.

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

Our expert plumbers will discuss what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you pick between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are a number 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 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 prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. Because they are without a tank, they can be squeezed in convenient spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s helpful to note they’re typically more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Call Jack Nelson Service Experts for Quality 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 simple monthly cost, you’ll receive a brand new one installed at no additional 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 ability to swap your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn more about our process for water heater replacement in Tulsa, give us a call at 918-212-8927 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.


chat now widget box