Would you think something was dreadfully wrong with your water heater if it looked like this? 

My oldest son called last week and said you have to come out and see the heater we just took out of a customer’s house.  It is perfect for your blog.  I was so excited he actually was paying attention to what I was doing and wanted to help. 

So I got the camera ready and the guys came by so I could take a picture.  I could not believe this was in a house and did not do more damage.  There was a leak and the pan was full but it could have been much worse.  The guys said if a customer just did a first glance look they probably thought it was fine,  but once the plate that blocked the pilot light was removed this is what they found.

Check out the picture from the bottom of the heater. 

If you have a slow leak of water that sits in the pan, you will eventually have this type of problem.  The drain is designed to protect you and drain out if there is a leak, however if the bottom of the heater rusts completely away then you can expect the pan to overflow and the damage to be great.

If your water heater is more than 10 years old call Bear to schedule a visit 832-287-5180.