Your water heater performs best with routine maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the time to notice quickly and fix common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in different places on your water heater and may be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank might be pointing to a more complicated problem. We would advise contacting a professional like Fras-Air/General Service Experts to discover if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning normally, the anode rod removes impurities from the water.
When your tank has rusted, it’s time to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank gives out.
Here are a few other signs that your water heater is on its way out.
4 Hints You Call for Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to break, these are telltale signs that it’s about to happen.
1. Age
A dependable water heater usually lives for close to 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a good idea to research replacing it even if it’s still working. 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 may taste strange or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and might also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced 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 learn yours is struggling even with less use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Strange Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod breaks, sediment builds up 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 Right for My House?
Our experienced plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When considering hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you pick between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are some 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 big and constantly heating water, which is less energy efficient. And with a life span of about 12 years, they must be replaced more quickly than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are used for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they are without a tank, they can be installed in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they frequently 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 offset by rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Call Fras-Air/General Service Experts for Excellent Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 low monthly cost, you’ll earn a brand new one installed at no additional cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to hold onto 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 changing needs.**
To learn more about our process for water heater replacement in Hillsborough, give us a call at 908-448-2154 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.