Your water heater does best with steady maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to react quickly and fix likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can take root in different places on your water heater and might be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank could be signs of a more complex problem. We would advise hiring a professional like A-PLUS Service Experts to learn if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod filters impurities from the water.
When your tank has corroded, 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 a few other signs that your water heater is on its way out.
4 Clues You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are frequent signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A quality water heater usually lives for close to 10 years. If yours is approaching this age or older, it’s a wise idea to consider 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 rusting. Your water could taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should deliver enough hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find 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 malfunctions, sediment collects in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work harder to heat water. This can result in clanging or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My Home?
Our qualified plumbers will share what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When thinking about 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 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 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 are without a tank, they can be installed in smaller 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 helpful to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be replenished with rebates since many models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on A-PLUS Service Experts for Quality 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 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 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 Waldorf, give us a call at 301-747-3140 today. Our Experts are ready to help however we can.
*See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. **New monthly rate will apply.