Your water heater does best with steady maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to respond quickly and resolve possible problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in several places on your water heater and could be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be pointing to a more complicated problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to determine if the tank’s interior liner has rusted. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.
When your tank has rust, it’s a good idea to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank breaks.
Here are some other signs that your water heater is breaking down.
4 Signs You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to fail, these are obvious signs that it’s about to happen.
1. Age
A quality water heater typically survives for close to 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a smart idea to consider replacing it even if it’s still in decent shape. That way, you can avoid losing out on 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 might taste unpleasant or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and could 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. Odd Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can produce banging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My Residence?
Our trusted 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 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 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 much sooner than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they don’t have a tank, they can be tucked away in cozy 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 wise to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 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 simple monthly cost, you’ll receive a brand new one installed at no added 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 update 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 Houston, give us a call at (713) 352-7887 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.