Your water heater works behind the scenes every day, supplying hot water for showers, laundry, dishwashing, and more. But like all appliances, it has a limited lifespan, and eventually, repairs may no longer be enough to keep it running efficiently.
Recognizing the signs early can save you from sudden breakdowns, water damage, and higher energy bills. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a water heater replacement in Calgary, AB, here are some of the most common indicators.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 to 15 Years Old
Most standard tank water heaters last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. In Calgary’s cold climate, where water heaters work harder to maintain hot water temperatures, wear and tear can happen even faster. If your unit is approaching or past this age range, replacement is often the smarter long-term choice—especially if you’ve already had multiple repairs in recent years.
Checking the manufacturer’s label or serial number will tell you the exact age of your system. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, start planning for a replacement before an unexpected failure leaves you without hot water.
2. Rust or Discolored Water
If you notice rusty or brownish water coming from your hot water taps, it could mean your tank is corroding from the inside. While sediment buildup can cause temporary discoloration, ongoing rust is usually a sign that the tank lining is deteriorating.
In many cases, once corrosion has begun inside the tank, replacement is the only solution—especially in Calgary, where water mineral content can accelerate rusting.
3. Frequent or Costly Repairs
A repair here and there is normal, but if you’re calling our team multiple times a year for heating element replacements, valve issues, or leaks, you may be spending more on maintenance than it would cost to replace the unit entirely.
When repair bills start to add up—especially on an older system—it’s often more cost-effective to invest in a water heater replacement that offers better efficiency and reliability.
4. Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water
If your showers are turning cold faster than they used to, or you’re running out of hot water when doing laundry and dishes, your water heater may be struggling to meet your household’s needs. This could be due to a failing heating element, sediment buildup reducing tank capacity, or simply an undersized system for your growing household.
Upgrading to a properly sized, high-efficiency model ensures you have enough hot water for your daily routine without constant frustration.
5. Leaks Around the Base of the Tank
Even small leaks at the base of your water heater can indicate serious tank damage. Left unaddressed, these leaks can lead to water damage in your home and mold growth. In most cases, a leaking tank is not repairable and will require immediate replacement to prevent further issues.
Why Choose Us for Your Water Heater Replacement
We specialize in helping Calgary homeowners find the right water heating solution for their budget, household size, and energy goals. We’ll ensure your installation meets all local codes and delivers reliable performance for years to come.
Contact Ace Plumbing and Heating today to schedule an appointment for your plumbing and HVAC needs. Happy Today or You Don’t Pay!