Alpha
Corrosion / Rust Contamination
Discolored (rusty or brown) hot water from faucets; cold water is clear.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Corroded Alpha tank interior, Deteriorated anode rod, Rusty hot water piping, Long periods of stagnation
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Allow water to cool before handling; discoloration is usually not an immediate safety hazard.
- Flush tank: Drain and flush the Alpha heater until water runs clear.
- Inspect anode rod: Remove and inspect the anode. Replace if heavily consumed.
- Check piping: If only certain fixtures show discoloration, inspect the hot water piping to those fixtures for corrosion.
- Monitor: If rust returns quickly after flushing, the tank lining may be failing and the heater should be replaced.
Severe internal corrosion is not repairable; plan for replacement of the Alpha water heater.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
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