Signs it is time
- Age. Tank heaters commonly last about ten to twelve years. The date is usually encoded in the serial number.
- Rust. Rusty hot water, or rust around the base or fittings.
- Leaks. Water from the tank itself cannot be repaired.
- Noise. Heavy rumbling from sediment that flushing no longer clears.
- Shortfall. Hot water running out sooner than it once did.
Planning the replacement
- Check ownership. If the unit is rented, review your contract for replacement and buy-out terms.
- Consider capacity. Has the household grown or added bathrooms?
- Compare types. Tank, power-vented tank, or tankless.
- Check venting. Furnace upgrades may change what is required.
- Book before failure, especially before winter.
The drain pan. Setting the new tank in a pan piped to the floor drain contains any future leak.
Extending life meanwhile
Flushing sediment annually and checking the anode rod can extend a tank's life. In Mississauga's moderately hard water, sediment builds steadily.
Electric units are covered on our electric water heater installation page. Basement protection pairs well with any utility room work; see backwater valve maintenance.
Worth knowing
Answers our Mississauga crew gives most
Can a leaking tank be repaired?
Leaks from fittings can; leaks from the tank itself cannot.
Should I replace before it fails?
When age and symptoms coincide, a scheduled change spares you the flood.
Is tankless worth it?
It depends on use, space and budget. Our comparison guide explains.