Your water heater does best with regular maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the time to notice quickly and resolve likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can appear in different places on your water heater and may be the result of leaky connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be evidence of a more serious problem. We suggest contacting a professional like Stevenson Service Experts to discover if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When operating like it’s supposed to, 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 fails.
Here are several other signs that your water heater is on its way out.
4 Signs You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to break, these are typical signs that it’s about to happen.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater typically lasts for close to 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a wise 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 corroding. 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 may also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should transport enough hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you learn yours is struggling even with low use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Abnormal Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod stops working, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can lead to banging or knocking sounds, as well as bigger 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 looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you choose 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 better-suited 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 much sooner than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are preferred for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they lack a tank, they can be placed in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As another bonus, they typically 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 balanced with rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Stevenson Service Experts for Quality Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, putting in a new heater can cost several thousand dollars, particularly 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 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 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 Columbus, give us a call at 614-334-3192 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.