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If you’ve spotted rust on or around your water heater, it’s time to take action. While a little surface discoloration might not seem like a big deal, rust and corrosion are often signs that your water heater is nearing the end of its life. Our trusted Peaden Pros have seen firsthand how rust can signal major trouble—and we’re here to help homeowners understand what it means and what to do next with their water heaters in Baldwin County, AL.
What Causes Rust on a Water Heater?
Rust typically forms when metal is exposed to both water and oxygen over time. Your water heater—especially a tank-style model—is a perfect environment for this to happen. Inside the tank, water is heated and stored for use, and over the years, that process can gradually wear down the tank’s protective lining.
Most water heaters are built with an internal glass lining and a component called an anode rod. The anode rod is designed to corrode first, protecting the rest of the tank. But when that rod is depleted and the lining starts to fail, the tank itself begins to rust.
Where You Might Spot the Rust
Homeowners may first notice rust in a few key areas:
- Hot water from taps – If rusty or discolored water only comes from the hot side, that’s a red flag your water heater is the source.
- Tank exterior – Rust on the outside of the tank, especially around seams or the bottom, suggests internal corrosion may be leaking through.
- Water around the base – Pools of water can mean your tank has rusted through and is leaking.
If any of these signs are showing up in your home, it’s a strong indication the unit may be compromised.
Can Rust Be Fixed?
Unfortunately, when rust sets in, especially inside the tank, there’s no effective way to reverse it. You can replace an anode rod or patch a small leak, but once rust has started to eat away at the tank’s interior, the structural integrity is at risk. At that point, replacement is the safest and most cost-effective solution.
Even if the water heater still functions, allowing it to run in a deteriorated condition can lead to more serious damage, such as flooding, water damage to surrounding areas, or even a sudden tank rupture.
Why Timely Replacement Matters
A failing water heater doesn’t just affect your comfort—it can also impact your home and wallet. Rising energy bills, inconsistent hot water, or rusty water staining your fixtures are just a few of the problems that can arise. Replacing a failing water heater proactively can prevent costly emergency repairs down the line.
Trust the Peaden Pros With Your Water Heater Needs
When rust shows up, don’t wait for disaster to strike. Our licensed, experienced Peaden Pros are ready to restore your home’s comfort with expert water heater services. We’re proud to serve the families of Baldwin County with reliable solutions and honest advice.
Need help with a rusty water heater? Contact Peaden today for a consultation and let our Pros get your hot water flowing again—safely and efficiently.