Noticing rusty water at home? Learn how to spot the signs of water heater failure, and know when it’s time to repair or replace your unit for clean, safe water for you and your family.
The appearance of rust-colored water coming from your tap isn’t just an inconvenience. It could be a key warning sign that your water heater needs repair or replacement. You may find yourself asking questions such as:
- Why is my hot water heater putting out rusty water?
- Does a rusty water heater need to be replaced?
- Is rust in hot water dangerous?
- What are the signs of a water heater going bad?
We’ll answer these questions so you can make the right decision for your family.
What Causes Rust in a Water Heater?
Rust in a water heater is typically the result of a combination of time, water chemistry and wear on internal components. What causes rust in a hot water heater? Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Natural corrosion
Over time, the combination of water and metal leads to oxidation, especially in steel tanks. - Failing anode rod
The anode rod is designed to attract corrosive elements, and once it deteriorates, rust begins to form on the tank. - High mineral content
Hard water with high levels of minerals like iron and magnesium can accelerate rusting inside the tank. - External factors
Moisture around the base of the heater, as well as damp environments, can cause external parts to rust.
Warning Signs Your Water Heater May Be Rusting
Catching the early signs of rust can help you avoid system failure and water damage. Here are five things to look out for:
- Discolored water
Water that appears reddish, brown or yellow when running hot is often a sign of rust inside the tank. - Visible rust or stains
Brown spots on the tank or orange streaks near plumbing connections are signs of rust. - Unusual noises
Rumbling or popping sounds may indicate sediment buildup, which can create the perfect environment for corrosion. - Leaks or moisture
Water pooling at the base, or condensation on the tank, could suggest rust has eaten through part of your water heater. - Drop in performance
A decrease in water temperature or longer heating times can signal internal corrosion.
Is Rust in Hot Water Dangerous?
Brown or rusty water is generally not dangerous to your health or bad to bathe in, but it can contain dissolved iron, which can be harmful at high levels over a prolonged period. Over time, the rust or brown coloring can also stain laundry or fixtures.
Can Your Rusty Water Heater Be Saved?
The sooner you catch the problem, the less likely you’ll need a replacement.
Early-stage rust
Rust buildup can sometimes be managed with routine maintenance. Flushing the tank or tankless water heater to remove sediment and replacing a worn anode rod can help stop corrosion and extend the life of your unit.
Severe internal rust
When rust forms deep inside the tank, especially after the anode rod has failed, the damage is typically irreversible. In most cases, internal rust means the structural integrity of the tank is compromised, and replacement is the only safe solution.
External rust
If your water heater has rust on the outside, it may be treatable if it’s localized and hasn’t spread across the outside of your unit. Cleaning and repainting affected areas, along with addressing any environmental causes like leaks or humidity, can help prevent further corrosion.
Repair or Replace? Know the Tipping Point for Your Water Heater
When we evaluate your tank, we’ll give you all of your options, whether the best approach is flushing your water heater to eliminate brown water, replacing parts, or full replacement of your unit. However, if your water heater is showing these signs, you probably need a replacement:
- The tank itself is corroding from the inside.
- The unit is more than 10–12 years old.
- Rust is widespread or the tank is leaking.
- You need multiple repair calls.
In each of these cases, a replacement will likely be more cost-effective.
How To Avoid Costly Rust Damage
The best strategy is to make sure your hot water heater is operating at peak efficiency to avoid rust in the first place. Schedule annual maintenance, including checking the anode rod and flushing the tank. You can also choose rust-resistant models, such as stainless steel or tankless water heaters, to prevent the problem from occurring.
Also, make sure to keep the area around your water heater dry and well-ventilated, and consider using a water softener to minimize mineral buildup.
Experiencing rusty hot water? It may be time to replace your water heater. Contact the pros at Payless Water Heaters to schedule an appointment.
