What It Means When Your Water Heater Has a Rusted

Your water heater does best with steady maintenance from a professional plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to react quickly and take care of common problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.

Rust can form in several places on your water heater and can be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be signs of a more complex problem. We would advise hiring a professional like D&K Home Services by Enercare to discover if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When working 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 gives out.

Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is breaking down.

4 Signs You Call for Water Heater Replacement

While your water heater can’t inform you exactly when it’s going to shut down, these are typical signs that it’s close.

1. Age

A well-maintained water heater generally lasts for about 10 years. If yours is near this age or older, it’s a good idea to look into replacing it even if it’s still working. 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 may taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and can also stain your bathroom fixtures.

3. Less Hot Water

Your water heater should transport 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 a replacement.

4. Abnormal Sounds

When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment collects 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 higher energy bills.

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My Residence?

Our expert plumbers will offer their opinion on what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into 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 tailor-made 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 more often 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 installed in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they generally last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s important to note they’re largely more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.

Trust D&K Home Services by Enercare for Quality Water Heater Replacement

Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 earn a brand new one installed at no surprise 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 flexibility to adjust your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**

To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in Belleville, give us a call at 613-707-2421 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.