Short answer
A tank water heater typically lasts around 8 to 12 years. Water at the base of the tank, rusty hot water, or rumbling and popping noises usually mean it's near the end. Shea Plumbing repairs and replaces water heaters in Kingston and area. If your tank is a rental, call the rental company first: repairs are normally their job.
Repair or replace?
A failed thermostat, heating element, thermocouple or gas valve can usually be repaired. A leak from the tank itself can't: once the inner lining rusts through, the only fix is a new heater. Age matters too. Spending money on a tank that's already past ten years rarely makes sense.
| What you're seeing | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| No hot water (electric) | Tripped breaker, failed element or thermostat |
| No hot water (gas) | Pilot or ignition problem, or a failed gas control |
| Water at the base of the tank | A leaking tank (replace) or a leaking fitting or relief valve (often repairable) |
| Rusty or discoloured hot water | Corrosion inside the tank, or a spent anode rod |
| Rumbling or popping sounds | Sediment built up on the bottom of the tank |
| Hot water runs out quickly | Sediment, a failed element, or a tank too small for the household |
Is your water heater rented or owned?
Many Kingston homes rent their water heater, from Utilities Kingston or another rental company. Check your utility bill: if there's a monthly rental charge, call the rental company first. Repairs and replacement are normally part of the contract, and they may not cover work done by anyone else. If you own your tank, or you're thinking about buying out the rental, we can help.
Tank, tankless or heat pump?
We install gas and electric tanks and tankless units. Conor is also a licensed G1 gas technician, so the gas connection and venting are handled by the same person. A tank is the cheapest to buy and simple to replace like for like. A tankless unit costs more up front, but it doesn't run out of hot water and it frees up floor space. It needs the right gas supply and venting. We'll look at your setup and tell you what fits.
If your tank is leaking right now
- Switch off the breaker (electric), or turn the gas control to "off" or "pilot".
- Close the cold water valve on the pipe going into the top of the tank.
- Put down towels or a pan, and keep the floor drain clear.
- Call (613) 449-1758. A leaking tank is an emergency call at any hour.
