hot water smells, could it mean my water heater?

[moroadking]

Hello everyone, this is my first time to the fourm and after looking around a little you all seem to be very smart and answer good questions.

Now on to my question, I have a 52 gallon State Water heater that is 30 years old. I know it is time for a new one but now I want to see how long it can last for. A problem that just started was when we turn on the shower, or warm to hot water it smells, It smells like metal of some sorts. Cold water is fine, it does not stink and it taste just fine. Does anyone know why this would be? I am guessing it is my water heater but I really don't want to get a new one yet. The hot water still pumps out very hot.

 

[Cass]

Could you post the Mod. and Ser. #? Is it Gas or Electric? Have you ever drained it?

 

[Sponsor]

 

[moroadking]

Here is the info on the water heater. And know I never have drained it. And I am a little gun shy to do so because I am afraid that if I open the drain it will not close, or worse than that break off. I don't think it has ever been drained in the 30 years. And we have hard water so I bet the bottom half is full of sediment. Here is the info:
Electric water heater by state industries asland city tennesee serial 52 gal model mv5 52 2

 

[Rancher]

30 Years

Buy a new one and replace it before the steel disolves...

Rancher