Your water heater works best with steady maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the chance to notice quickly and take care of possible problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can grow in various places on your water heater and may be the result of damaged connections. But rust on the bottom of your water heater’s tank may be pointing to a more serious problem. We suggest hiring a professional like Stark Services to find out if the tank’s interior liner has degraded. This happens after the anode rod fails. When working normally, the anode rod removes 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 fails.
Here are a small number of other signs that your water heater is on its way out.
4 Clues You Should Schedule Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t share exactly when it’s going to break, these are obvious signs that it’s about to happen.
1. Age
A quality water heater usually survives for around 10 years. If yours is close to this age or older, it’s a good idea to look into replacing it even if it’s still in decent shape. 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 rusting. Your water might taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t especially harmful, it affects your water quality and may also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Less Hot Water
Your water heater should transport ample hot water, even if you’re showering and washing clothes at the same time. If you find yours is struggling even with less use, it’s time to get a new one.
4. Weird Sounds
When your water heater’s anode rod fails, sediment builds up in the tank. As a result, your water heater must work more intensely to heat water. This can lead to clanging or knocking sounds, as well as higher energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Right for My Residence?
Our qualified 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 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 regularly than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are preferred for their energy efficiency since they heat water when told. 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 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 offset by rebates since quite a few models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Trust Stark Services for Excellent 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 simple monthly cost, you’ll be entitled to a brand new one installed at no surprise cost. There’s no down payment or large initial expense, and you’ll get to subtract 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 replace your water heater tank size or style based on your family’s growing needs.**
To learn more about our process for water heater replacement in Fort Worth, give us a call at 817-668-6689 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.