Signs the tank is near its end
- Water seeping from the bottom seam of the tank
- Rumbling or popping as the burner runs
- Showers turning cold earlier than last year
- Brownish hot water from taps whose cold side looks fine
- A rating plate showing the heater is well past ten years
Local notes on gas heaters
Most detached homes in Scarborough heat water with natural gas from Enbridge. Many tanks are rentals, so check your gas bill before arranging a replacement, since the rental company may need to remove its unit. Hard water speeds up sediment build-up in the tank, which shortens its life. Older bungalows may have a heater vented into a shared chimney with the furnace, and venting rules matter when either appliance changes.
Rented or owned? A line item for a water heater rental on your gas bill means you do not own it. Buying out or returning it is part of the plan.
How the replacement goes
- We confirm household size, current capacity and venting type.
- We close the gas and water, empty the old tank through a hose and unhook it.
- The new heater is set in place with a proper drain pan if needed.
- Gas, water and venting are connected by a licensed gas technician, and a new relief valve discharge pipe is fitted.
- The heater is lit, tested for leaks and draft, and set to a safe temperature.
What changes the cost
Tank size, standard versus power-vented models, venting changes and how easy the basement is to reach all count. Moving a heater to a new spot adds work.
When to replace
Do not wait for a flood if the tank is old and showing signs. A planned swap avoids a cold weekend. If you are curious about switching, see tank vs tankless.