Your water heater works best with consistent maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to respond quickly and resolve likely problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can form in several places on your water heater and may be the result of loose connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank can be pointing to a more complicated problem. We suggest hiring a professional like Finch Air Conditioning & Heating to find out if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This appears 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 rusted, 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 few other signs that your water heater is beginning to fail.
4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to break, these are common signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A dependable water heater typically lives for around 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 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 rusted down. Your water could taste strange 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. Less Hot Water
Your water heater should produce enough hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you discover yours is struggling even with minimal use, it’s time to get an upgrade.
4. Strange Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment appears in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work longer to heat water. This can lead to clanking or knocking sounds, as well as larger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Best for My House?
Our trusted 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 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 used for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they lack a tank, they can be hidden in smaller spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they often last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s smart to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be balanced with rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Depend on Finch Air Conditioning & Heating for Quality Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, installing 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 receive 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 opportunity to update your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s changing needs.**
To learn everything about our process for water heater replacement in Kingwood, give us a call at 281-407-9478 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.