Bradford White Corrosion / Rust Contamination

Bradford White water heater produces discolored or rusty hot water.

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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 anode rod, Internal tank corrosion, Rusty galvanized piping, Sediment and iron buildup

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Discolored water is usually not an immediate safety hazard but may stain fixtures and laundry.

Steps:

  • Determine source: Check if cold water is clear and only hot is discolored. If both are rusty, the issue may be with the municipal supply or well.
  • Flush tank: Drain and flush the heater to remove rust and sediment.
  • Inspect anode rod: Remove and inspect the anode rod. If heavily consumed, replace with a new Bradford White-compatible anode.

If rust persists and the heater is older, internal tank corrosion may be advanced, and replacement is recommended.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Anode Rod
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