Signs it is time
- Rust-coloured water on the hot side only
- Water pooling under the tank or around the drain valve
- Popping and banging as sediment boils
- The date code on the label shows it is well past a decade old
Rental or owned?
Many Ontario homes rent their water heater. Spot a rental sticker on the jacket? Then dig out that contract before anything is swapped; there may be buyout and removal terms. If you own it, we can replace it directly.
What the swap involves
- Shut off gas and water, drain the aged tank by hose into the floor drain.
- Disconnect the gas line, venting and water connections.
- Set the fresh tank on a level base, connect new flex lines and a dielectric union where needed.
- Fit a properly piped temperature and pressure relief valve discharge.
- Check venting draft, test gas connections for leaks and light the burner.
Sizing and venting
Atmospheric-vent tanks use the chimney; power-vented models push exhaust out the wall with a fan and need a nearby outlet. If you have a large family or a soaker tub, you may need a bigger tank or a tankless unit. Our guide on tank versus tankless compares the two, and water heater lifespan explains what wears out first.
The short version
Tell-tale signs
- Pilot will not stay lit after a few tries
- Hot side smells of sulphur or runs orange
- Crackling in the tank when the burner lights
- Puddle under the tank, or the relief valve dribbling
Kit on the van
- Anode socket on a breaker bar
- Garden hose for draining to the floor drain
- Copper flex connectors and a thermal expansion tank
- Appliance dolly and straps for the old tank
How we go about it
- Valve off gas or flip the breaker, then close the cold
- Hose the tank down to the floor drain
- Change the part or set a new tank and re-pipe it
- Fire it up and smoke-test the vent hood
Your questions, answered plainly
How long is a typical swap?
A like-for-like swap is normally a half-day job.
Do you haul away the old tank?
Yes, the old unit leaves with us unless it belongs to a rental company that collects it.