Must Knows.

Most residential gas or electric hot water tanks last around 6–12 years before wear and corrosion start to take their toll. Once the manufacturer’s warranty runs out, it’s best to plan ahead for replacement rather than waiting for a leak or complete failure. Doing so helps avoid property damage, downtime, and costly emergency calls. Any visible rust on the tank—no matter how minor—is a sure sign the unit has reached the end of its life and should be replaced promptly.

Before you reach out for service or replacement, a few quick checks can save time and help us diagnose the issue faster:

• Find your tank’s model and serial number. These are on the manufacturer’s rating plate (usually on the front or side). We’ll use them to confirm the age, warranty status, and compatible parts.

• Check for visible rust or leaks. Any sign of corrosion, moisture at the base, or staining around fittings is an immediate sign the tank may need replacement.

• Know your tank type. Identify whether your system is gas or electric.

• Understand the tank’s access path. Note any tight spaces, stairs, or obstacles that could affect removal or installation — such as tanks located behind laundry machines, in ceilings, or in confined areas. This helps us prepare proper equipment and manpower for a smooth, safe replacement.

• Gather purchase or installation info. If possible, note the install date or warranty paperwork. This helps us determine coverage and quote options quickly.

A few clear photos of the tank, its location, and the rating plate before calling are priceless — they allow us to identify your model, confirm warranty details, and plan for an efficient, hassle-free service call.

Why you might have an Expansion Tank (and why not every install needs one)
An expansion tank helps absorb pressure that builds up when water heats and expands inside your hot water tank. It protects your plumbing system from excess pressure and helps prevent leaks or damage over time.

Not every home needs one, though. In some older houses, expanding water can safely push back into the city’s main line, and in apartment buildings, expansion can push back into the larger shared water system, so a separate expansion tank in your unit isn’t usually required.

However, many newer homes — or properties with modern water meters that include check valves — have what we will call a “closed system.” These setups trap expanding water and increase pressure, making an expansion tank necessary to stay safe and within code.

If your temperature and pressure relief valve is dripping or leaking, it could mean your expansion tank has failed, or that your installation required one in the first place.

If you’re unsure whether your system needs an expansion tank, Tubman Plumbing LTD can quickly inspect your setup and recommend the right solution for your home or business.

Repairs for Gas and Electric Hot Water Tanks
Both gas and electric hot water tanks can often be repaired when problems are caught early. Common signs include no hot water, changing water temperatures, or strange noises coming from the tank. Electric models might have a bad heating element or thermostat, while gas models can have issues with the pilot light, burner, or venting.

If you see water around the base, rust on the tank, or the breaker keeps tripping, it’s time to have it checked. A pilot light that won’t stay lit is another reason to call.

Repairs are usually worth looking into if your tank is under 8 years old and still within its warranty. If it’s older, or you’re seeing several issues at once, replacement is often the better option.

Tubman Plumbing LTD can inspect your system, find the cause quickly, and let you know if it’s worth fixing or time for a new tank.