Water heaters are essential appliances, but they’re vulnerable to one common problem: corrosion. Built from metal and constantly exposed to water and oxygen, they’re naturally prone to rust over time. Corrosion can be worsened by mineral buildup or impurities in your water supply.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to identify the signs of water heater corrosion, what causes it, and how to prevent long-term damage through proper maintenance.
Signs Your Water Heater May Be Corroding
Here are three major warning signs that your house or establishment has water heater corrosion:
1. Rust-Colored Hot Water
If the hot water from your tap appears rusty, your tank may be corroding from the inside. This can happen even in units that are only 6–10 years old. Discoloration is often a sign that the inner lining or anode rod is deteriorating.
2. Corroded or Rusted Valves
Inspect the temperature and pressure relief valve and water inlet or outlet connections. If you notice rust on these parts, there’s a strong chance that corrosion is affecting the internal tank. You can try flushing the tank with a vinegar-water solution to remove light rust, but significant damage usually means the unit needs replacing.
3. Leaking Water Tank
Any leak from the tank itself may be a result of corrosion at the seams or fittings. It’s not always easy to determine where a leak is coming from—whether it’s the valve, pipe joint, or the tank—but it’s important to call a licensed plumber as soon as you notice water pooling or dripping.
Corrosion at Pipe Connections
Check the joints where pipes connect to your water heater. Corrosion here, especially where copper meets steel, can indicate galvanic corrosion — a type of electrochemical reaction caused by two different metals in contact with water. This type of corrosion can severely weaken the structural integrity of your water heater and the connected plumbing system.
Solution: Replace metal pipe connections with dielectric nipples (plastic-lined fittings) to prevent further damage and stop further water heater corrosion.
Causes of Water Heater Corrosion
Aside from the heater’s age, other contributing factors include:
- Hard water with high mineral content
- Poor or irregular maintenance
- A damaged or worn-out anode rod
- Faulty plumbing connections (e.g., steel and copper in contact)
- Sediment buildup in the tank
How to Prevent Water Heater Corrosion
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your equipment and prevent water heater corrosion. Follow these key steps:
- Inspect and replace the anode rod every 1 to 2 years, or sooner if it’s heavily worn.
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment that can cause rust and corrosion.
- Install dielectric nipples at copper-steel pipe joints to reduce electrochemical reactions.
- Consider a whole-house water filter if your area has hard or mineral-heavy water.
- Schedule professional inspections to catch early signs of wear before they cause permanent damage.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re seeing signs of rust, leaking, or inconsistent water temperature, it may be time to repair or replace your water heater. At BJC Plumbers North Bergen, our certified technicians can inspect, repair, or replace any type of water heater quickly and efficiently.
Call us today at (201) 389-9959, or request a quote online. We’ll respond promptly to assess your needs and provide reliable solutions.
Final Thoughts
Water heater corrosion can lead to leaks, inefficiency, and costly damage if not addressed early. By watching for warning signs and following a regular maintenance routine, you can prevent most corrosion issues and extend the life of your unit.
For expert help with any water heater issue, contact BJC Plumbers North Bergen. We’re here to help with honest, reliable service.
