Rust Colored Hot Water?

Question

I have rust colored hot water. Since it is just the hot water, I am inclined to say it has something to do with the hot water heater. Are there any physical or health issues associated with bathing or drinking it? How difficult is it to get rid of? Since I am renting, is it something that the landlord "has" to fix? I know that is a judgement call, but I guess I am looking for input on that. When I moved in, I was told it was because the hot water hadnt been used in a month and should clear out and run clean in a little while - well it has been two months, and it is still like I am bathing in dirty water. Help please.

Answer 1

Hi,
If you are getting rust coloured water from your hot water tank then it sounds like it needs replacing.
First thing go and take a look at the hot water tank. If you see any rust coming through down the botton of the tank get it replaced soon.

Don't leave it like I did. I came home and my garage was flooded. Litres of water wasted. Or worse still if your tanks inside it could ruin the carpet.

What can happen to the tank is the top will blow off or the side sean will split.

Rust in water and rust at the botton of the tank are warning signs.

Answer 2

Try this. There is a drain at the bottom of the hot water heater (looks just like a hose connection), connect a hose to it and run the hose to a sink or tub or outdoors. Open the valve and look at the water coming out. It may have a bit of rust in it due to settlement in the tank. Fluch it for a few minutes until it runs clear. Let the tank sit for a day and repeat. If you still have rust in the water your tank is shot and should be replaced IMMEDIATELY. A rusty tank is a flood waiting to happen. It may last a month or two or it may last an hour or two. If you don't see the rust, try a tap. If the tap is flushing rust but the tank is clear, you have rusty pipes and should replace them. Either way you are looking at a fairly large expense unless you are a good do-it-yourselfer. A new hot water heater is fairly expensive. If you do have to replace the heater, you should go with a tankless system. They can supply constant hot water and don't have the expense of constantly heating water you aren't using. They last for many times the life of a normal heater and are very energy efficient. They run anywhere from $200 to $2000 depending on volumne of water needed. Good luck.

Answer 3

you can flush the water heater out but that's only a temporary solution hook a hose up to the bottom of your water heater turn the gas valve to pilot and open the hose up and let it run for a few minutes close the draw off and turn the gas back to on. if it is an electric water heater kill the power to the unit before you flush it out.. but the end result you need a new water heater the rust is a sign that the tank is rotting ..... as far as health wise you should never use hot water for cooking or drinking very unhealthy regardless of what color it is..

Answer 4

Try draining the tank and refilling a couple times, I wouldn't bathe in it,drain and refill should get you by for awhile without the rust color. Don't drink hot water out of tap, use cold and heat it up. that water in your water heater is only 120degrees and if not used for awhile just sits there like stagnant water in a ditch. If it's a big heater maybe you don't use enough water to completely get rid of rust water.

Answer 5

The hot water tank needs flushed.
Here's the problem though. You call the landlord and tell them about your trouble. Then they ask you, "do you have hot water"? You say "yes". They say STFU.
Research the best way to flush the hot water tank on google and DIY.

Answer 6

Hot water tank has to be replaced... it is rusted out on the inside.... this will not get any better.

At the very least landlord should compensate you for the inconvenience.... free rent for a month or two... etc.

Be blessed!

Answer 7

You need to flush the hot water heater. Be careful because the flush valve may get stuck open with rust.
No harm just nasty.
A water softener would be nice.

Answer 8

Landlord has be made aware of the situation personally and in writing. Then wait a couple of weeks for a reply, then take it from there. You should take action if the landlord is one of those money grabbers that do nothing to improve the rental.

Answer 9

um.. call your landlord NOW! well, it can't be good for you! you pay rent, so your landlord is responsible for such an issue. yes, i would say it is probably a hot water heater issue.

i wouldn't do a thing because it is not your responsibility & you don't want to be held responsible for the problem unless CLEARLY stated in your contract.

Answer 10

continual rust would indicate old water lines..galvanized piping.. (I am assuming you have city water and not a private well) if a complete flush of the system doesnt clear it up then it is time for new piping and yes that is the landlords responsibility.