Your water heater performs best with regular maintenance from an experienced plumber. This annual service gives you the opportunity to notice quickly and resolve potential problems. One such issue is a rusty bottom on tank water heaters.
Rust can take root in various places on your water heater and could 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 suggest calling a professional like San Antonio Air Service Experts to find out if the tank’s interior liner has corroded. This occurs after the anode rod fails. When functioning as usual, the anode rod pushes out impurities from the water.
When your tank has rusted, it’s time to schedule water heater replacement. Otherwise, you risk having your home flooded with gallons of water when the tank fails.
Here are some other signs that your water heater is on its way out.
4 Clues You Need Water Heater Replacement
While your water heater can’t tell you exactly when it’s going to break, these are frequent signs that it’s going out.
1. Age
A well-maintained water heater usually lasts for about 10 years. If yours is around this age or older, it’s a wise idea to research 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 rusted down. Your water might taste unusual or stain your clothes when you wash them. While rust isn’t necessarily harmful, it affects your water quality and could also stain your bathroom fixtures.
3. Reduced Hot Water
Your water heater should deliver a steady supply of 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. Strange 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 bigger energy bills.
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank? What’s Ideal for My Residence?
Our experienced plumbers will recommend what’s best for your specific needs and your home. When looking into hot water heater replacement, they’ll help you decide between tankless water heaters and tank models. Here are a number of the key differences.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters are the most common model. 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 large and constantly heating water, which is less energy efficient. And with a life span of about 12 years, they must be replaced more quickly than a tankless model.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are prized for their energy efficiency since they heat water when directed to. Because they are without a tank, they can be squeezed in cozy spaces, like under your sink or in a closet. As an extra bonus, they typically last twice as long as a tank model. However, it’s good to note they’re often more expensive than tank models. But this cost can be offset by rebates since several models are ENERGY STAR® rated.
Call San Antonio Air Service Experts for Quality Water Heater Replacement
Hot water heater replacement cost isn’t cheap. In fact, putting in 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 additional 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 replace 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 San Antonio, give us a call at 210-570-9705 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.