Rust color in hot water

[pdg35]

I noticed today that the hot water from my faucets (kitchen, both baths) has a rusty color to it once I let it run hot for about 3-5 seconds. When I turn the faucets to cold, the water runs clear. Is this a hot water heater problem or something else? My heater is gas, is about 11 years old now, and I was already looking to replace it. I hadn't seen any signs of failure until today...unless this is caused by something else. Any ideas?

[Terry]

Most of the time, that rust on the hot side is from the water heater.

[hj]

Your water heater is rusting on the inside. You can either change it now, or when it starts to leak.

[pdg35]

Thanks for confirming what I thought. Looks like I'll be changing out a water heater this week!

Merry Christmas.