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Triple master contractor Ed Del Grande
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By Ed Del Grande
Q: Hi, Ed, I'm a contractor, and I enjoy your column. Recently I read a question in your column about you saying that rusty hot water from the faucet can be caused by a water heater on its way out. You recommended they install a new water heater. Please remember that rust from your water heater is not always from a bad tank ready to rupture. It can be caused by a deteriorating anode rod inside the tank. When rust starts to appear, have a professional remove the old anode rod, pick up the right size and install a new anode rod. If the rust stops after a few days you would have saved a costly replacement of your water heater. Rod (Nevada)
A: First off, Rod, you have the perfect name to address this issue! For those who don't know, an anode rod is a protection device to prolong tank life for a water heater.
I agree with everything you said but must point out that, especially with an older tank, it may not be cost-effective to try to troubleshoot the problem. In many areas of the country, the labor costs may be less expensive to simply swap out an older water heater with a new one than to make two or three trips trying to figure out how to fix a used tank.
It all gets down to what the homeowner and local plumber feel is the most cost effective way to solve a problem. A good contractor like Rod will help you make the correct decisions for your area. Keep up the good work!
Ed Del Grande was born and raised in a family-owned plumbing business. With more than 25 years of experience in every aspect of construction, he holds current Master licenses in pipefitting, fire protection and plumbing. If you have a question for Ed, send him an e-mail at eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.
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