I believe the original poster is dealing with three issues, and trying to resolve who, how or why this happened. Was it poor design or workmanship from the manufacturer, was it poor or improper storage from the supplier (Home Depot), or was it installer error.
As an old retired detective, I myself would first go to that same orange box store, and see how they store unsold water heaters. Snoop around to see if any are exposed to the elements, look for rust or any signs of wetness. Hell, maybe ask some associates whether they ever stock excess tanks outside in the elements.
Then, do the same with the installer. Was there signs of rust when installed?
I can go on and on, but you need hard evidence against one entity so you can become "whole", because as a homeowner, you and us know something is wrong here, and this should not have happened.
As an old retired detective, I myself would first go to that same orange box store, and see how they store unsold water heaters. Snoop around to see if any are exposed to the elements, look for rust or any signs of wetness. Hell, maybe ask some associates whether they ever stock excess tanks outside in the elements.
Then, do the same with the installer. Was there signs of rust when installed?
I can go on and on, but you need hard evidence against one entity so you can become "whole", because as a homeowner, you and us know something is wrong here, and this should not have happened.
