Have you ever turned on the hot water tap and noticed rusty or reddish-brown water flowing out? It’s a sight that can quickly turn a relaxing shower into a moment of concern. Rust-colored water is not just unpleasant—it’s a warning sign that something may be wrong with your traditional tank water heater.
At Quality Water Heater Services, we specialize in repairing and maintaining tank water heaters (no tankless systems). If you’re dealing with rusty water, don’t ignore it! Let’s explore what it means, what causes it, and what you should do next.
🔎 What Causes Rust-Colored Water?
✅ Rust Inside the Tank
Over time, the inside of your tank water heater can start to corrode. The tank’s inner lining is protected by an anode rod, which attracts rust and corrosion to itself instead of the steel tank walls. However, if the anode rod becomes fully corroded or the lining wears away, rust can form inside the tank and mix with your hot water supply.
✅ Rust in Pipes or Plumbing
Sometimes, rust-colored water isn’t caused by your water heater at all—it might be coming from aging galvanized steel pipes in your home’s plumbing system. Rust flakes can break off and discolor your water, particularly when running hot water, which can loosen debris.
✅ Sediment and Mineral Buildup
Hard water can cause sediment buildup in your tank. Over time, minerals and rust particles can accumulate, resulting in rusty-looking water. This sediment also affects heating efficiency and can cause strange noises from your water heater.
🚩 Signs Rust Is Coming from Your Water Heater
Wondering whether your rusty water problem is your tank water heater—or your pipes? Look for these clues:
- Rust only in hot water, not cold – often indicates water heater issues.
- Rusty water from all taps, both hot and cold – could point to your home’s pipes.
- Strange metallic smell in the water.
- Popping or rumbling sounds from your water heater, signaling sediment buildup.
- Visible rust around tank fittings, valves, or seams.
🛠️ What to Do If You See Rust-Colored Water
✔️ Test the Water Source
Check both hot and cold taps separately. If only the hot water is rusty, the water heater is likely the issue.
✔️ Schedule a Professional Inspection
Don’t guess—call an expert. A professional technician can diagnose whether rust is coming from inside your tank or elsewhere in your plumbing system.
✔️ Consider Flushing the Tank
If sediment is the cause, flushing your tank can remove mineral deposits and rust particles. However, if rust is extensive, flushing alone may not solve the problem.
✔️ Replace the Anode Rod
If your water heater is relatively new but showing signs of rust, replacing the anode rod can help prevent further damage.
✔️ Prepare for Replacement
If your water heater is older (typically over 8-12 years) and rust is extensive, replacement may be the safest and most cost-effective solution to avoid leaks or tank failure.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Rust-Colored Water
Ignoring rust-colored water can lead to:
- Damaged fixtures and appliances
- Health concerns from sediment in your water supply
- Tank leaks and costly water damage
- Total water heater failure
Addressing rust early helps protect both your water heater and your home’s plumbing system.
🔧 Trust Quality Water Heater Services for Rust Issues
At Quality Water Heater Services, we’re experts in diagnosing and repairing issues with traditional tank water heaters. From flushing sediment to replacing worn parts—or helping you choose a new unit when necessary—we’re here to keep your hot water safe and reliable.
📞 Call us today at (408) 679-5820 or visit qualitywaterheaterservice.com to schedule a professional inspection and restore clean, clear hot water to your home!