What Things to Do When Your Water Heater is Rusted Underneath

Your water heater does best with routine maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the time to notice quickly and fix likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can grow in various places on your water heater and may be the result of ill-fitted connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be pointing to a more complex problem. We suggest hiring a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to discover if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When operating normally, the anode rod pushes out 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 breaks.

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 tell you exactly when it’s going to break, these are common signs that it’s about to happen.

1. Age

A dependable water heater usually lives for close to 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a smart idea to look into replacing it even if it’s still working. 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 could taste unpleasant 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 produce 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 new one.

4. Odd Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can lead to clanking or knocking sounds, as well as higher energy bills.

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

Our trusted plumbers will share 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 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 better-suited 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 are without a tank, they can be tucked away in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an added bonus, they frequently last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s smart to note they’re frequently more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Outstanding 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 simple 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 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 opportunity to replace 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 Ravenna, give us a call at 330-236-4793 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.