Rusted Sacrificial Anode Rod
The sacrificial anode dip rod in the water heater is generally made of magnesium and is fitted to prevent oxidization and corrosion inside the water tank. But over months, this anode rod gets rusted and loses its efficiency. A rusted anode rod is incapable of preventing the chemical reactions inside the tank. This leads to further rusting of the walls of the tank and makes the water smelly and discolored.
Rusted Tank
Internal rusting of the tank can result in brownish colored water from the tank. This water may also have an unpleasant, musty odor. If the tank is not cleaned and treated, small holes can develop in the tank which further leads to dripping and leaks from the heater. In rare cases, the water heater can become inefficient and even burst.
Rusted Thermostat
Thermostats are responsible for maintaining the hot water temperature of the water inside the tank. If thermostats of your water heater are rusted, this may affect the temperature of water. You may either receive too hot or not enough hot water from the tank. Also, while adjusting the temperature, you will face difficulty in turning the temperature dial due to rusted components.
Rusted Water Heater Body
This is critical. If you see rust patches on the outer body of the tank, you must find out its causes. If you notice leaks and wet patches on the external part, understand that this usually happens when the tank starts leaking and rusting internally. But, if you don't observe any wet patches or leaks, it's just the outer jacket that is rusted. This can be because of condensation around the tank. Although there are no chances of any serious consequences, you must call a professional water heater expert and seek his advice. Depending on the situation, he will suggest the solution.
Rusted Connections
If you spot rusting around the connections of your water heater, you must be a little worried. Connections of the pipes, water inlet and outlet, the anode rod, heating elements, etc. can eventually loosen up due to rusting. Loose connections may result in leaks and abnormal performance of the water heater.
Though rusty water is not extremely harmful to human health, regular use may cause problems for hair, scalp, and skin. Hence, if you notice rust spots on your water heater or obtain rusty water from it, do not delay. Call our Edmonton water heater professionals and get the problem fixed.