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GTAGTA Plumbing Company

Services ยท Hot water

Water Heater Repair for Homes Across the GTA

Cold showers, short showers, tea-coloured water and a growling tank: most tank heater complaints trace back to a handful of parts we carry on the truck.

  • Relief valve tested on every visit
  • Repair or replace explained side by side
  • Hot water confirmed at the furthest tap
Person fitting a wall-mounted water heater unit
Fitting a wall-hung water heater unit.

Diagnosis first, tested after

Signs it is time to call

For gas units, a pilot flame that keeps dropping out, a burner that lights and shuts off, or a smell of exhaust near the draft hood need attention. On electric tanks, lukewarm water usually points to a failed element or thermostat. On both, a dripping relief valve, a rotten-egg smell or discoloured water tell us something specific.

A rumbling tank is not haunted. It is boiling water trapped under sediment.

On the job, step by step

FaultTypical repair
Pilot will not stay litThermocouple or thermopile replacement
Lukewarm water (electric)Test and replace element or thermostat
RumblingFlush sediment
Sulphur smellSwap magnesium anode for aluminum-zinc
Relief valve drippingCheck pressure, add expansion tank, replace valve

Before any repair, we check venting and draft on gas units with a mirror or gauge and test for leaks on the gas connection.

GTA houses and what they change

Many GTA homes have rental water heaters, in which case the rental provider is generally responsible for repairs; check your contract before calling us. Hard Lake Ontario water speeds sediment buildup. Tanks in tight closets in older homes may be hard to service. Once the shell itself leaks, no part will save it.

Before you pick up the phone

Ask whether the tank is worth repairing given its age, and whether the plumber will check venting. Look for the date on the rating plate before you call (365) 387-8531.

Signs you need this

  • Hot water runs out halfway through one shower
  • Rumbling or popping from the tank as the burner fires
  • Rusty or brown water from the hot side only

What is included

  • Drain hose and flushing kitSediment out of the bottom of the tank
  • Pipe cutter and press toolNew shut-off, unions and expansion tank where needed
Typical cause
Sediment, worn anode, failed thermocouple or element
Access point
Burner door, element covers, drain valve
Proof of fix
Full temperature at the furthest tap

Common questions

How long should a tank water heater last?

Commonly ten to fifteen years, less with hard water and no maintenance. A leak from the tank body means replacement.

Related pages

Call now · (365) 387-8531