Your water heater does best with steady maintenance from an expert plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to react quickly and take care of possible problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can appear in several 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 might be pointing to a more complex problem. We recommend hiring a professional like Midland Air Service Experts to determine if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears after the anode rod fails. When functioning normally, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.
When your tank has rusted, it’s wise to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank gives out.
Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is breaking down.
4 Clues 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 beginning.
1. Age
A quality water heater generally lasts for around 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a wise idea to consider 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 rusted down. Your water could taste odd or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t always harmful, it affects your water quality and could also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Decreased Hot Water
Your water heater should transport 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 an upgrade.
4. Weird Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work harder to heat water. This can lead to clanking or knocking sounds, as well as bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Right for My Home?
Our trusted 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 few 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 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 valued for their energy efficiency since they heat water on demand. Because they lack a tank, they can be hidden in cozy 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 helpful to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Call Midland Air Service Experts for Outstanding Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, connecting 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 be entitled to a brand new one installed at no added 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 flexibility to change your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s evolving needs.**
To learn the details about our process for water heater replacement in Columbia, give us a call at 803-399-7208 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.