Why my water heater rusting and leaking Water Heater Troubleshooting: Questions and Answers At Emergency Plumbing, we understand the frustration of dealing with water heater issues. To help you navigate common problems, we’ve compiled a list of real-life scenarios and expert answers. Whether it’s corrosion, leaks, or rust, we’ve got you covered! 1) What Causes Corrosion on the Top of a Water Heater? Scenario: Maria in Naperville called us after noticing a whitish, crusty buildup and rust forming on the top of her water heater. Answer: Corrosion on the top of a water heater is often caused by leaks from pipe fittings, the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, or the cold-water inlet and hot-water outlet connections. The constant presence of moisture allows rust to form, especially if fittings are loose or damaged. Solution: • Tighten or replace the fittings. • Ensure the T&P valve is functioning properly. • Schedule regular mainten...
Common Causes of Water Heater Rust and How to Prevent It Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. With proper care, it can serve you for up to 20 years. However, rust is one of the leading causes of premature water heater failure, turning durable tanks into brittle, leaky messes. At Emergency Plumbing, we’re here to help you understand the common causes of water heater rust and, more importantly, how to prevent it. Why Does Rust Occur in Water Heaters? Rust is a natural reaction when metals like iron come into contact with water and oxygen. While water heaters are designed with built-in safeguards against rust, these measures can fail over time, leaving the tank vulnerable. Let’s explore the top causes of water heater rust. 1. Failed Anode Rods Anode rods are your water heater’s first line of defense against rust. These steel rods, coated in aluminum, magnesium, or zinc, attract sediment and corrosion-causing elements, p...