Dealing With Furnace Problems

Dealing with Rusty Water in Your Water Heater: Tips for Repair

22 July 2024 by Eliza Chapman

If you've ever turned on your faucet only to find discolored, rusty water coming out, you're not alone. Rusty water is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, but one of the most common culprits is a problem with your water heater.

This article will discuss why rusty water might be coming from your water heater, how to diagnose the issue, and tips for repairing it.

Understanding the Cause of Rusty Water

Rusty water is often a sign that there is corrosion occurring inside your water heater tank. This corrosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging pipes, high mineral content in your water supply, or even just normal wear and tear on your water heater over time. When metal components inside the tank begin to rust, it can lead to rust particles getting into the hot water supply and causing discoloration.

Diagnosing the Issue

If you notice rusty water coming from your faucets or showerheads, the first step is to determine whether the issue is isolated to hot water or affects both hot and cold water. If only the hot water is discolored, the problem likely lies within your water heater. To confirm this, you can drain a few gallons of hot water from your tank and check for any signs of rust or sediment at the bottom.

Tips for Repairing Rusty Water

Once you've determined that the rusty water is indeed coming from your water heater, there are a few steps you can take to address the issue. One option is to flush out your tank to remove any built-up sediment or rust particles that may be causing discoloration. This process involves draining all of the existing hot water from your tank and refilling it with fresh, clean water.

Preventing Future Issues

To prevent rusty water from returning in the future, there are a few maintenance tasks you can perform regularly. Flushing out your tank at least once a year can help prevent sediment buildup and corrosion inside the tank. Additionally, installing a whole-house sediment filter or using a descaling agent periodically can help keep mineral deposits at bay.

When to Call a Professional

If you're uncomfortable performing maintenance on your own or if you continue to experience issues with rusty water after attempting repairs, it may be time to call in a professional plumber. A licensed plumber will have the tools and expertise necessary to diagnose and repair more complex issues with your water heater.

Reach out to a company that offers water heater repair services to learn more.

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