Is My Water Heater Rented, and What Can I Do About It?
Look for a rental company's sticker on the tank and check your utility or gas bill for a monthly water heater charge. If it's rented, the rental company is normally responsible for repairs. Owning one means you choose who services and replaces it.
Request a plumberHow do I know it's rented?
A sticker or tag from a rental company on the tank, a line on your gas or utility bill, or paperwork from when you bought the house. If you're unsure, contact your gas utility and ask.
Who fixes a rented heater?
Usually the rental company, under the agreement. Report problems to them first. A plumber you hire may not be allowed to work on equipment you don't own.
Can I replace it with my own?
Most agreements let you end the rental, sometimes with a buyout or a fee to remove the old tank. Read the contract and get the details in writing before you book an installation.
How old is it?
The rating label on the tank shows the model and serial number, and the year is often coded in the serial number.
What about door-to-door offers?
Be cautious with anyone at the door offering a free inspection or a new rental. Ontario has strict rules on door-to-door sales of water heaters, so don't sign anything on the spot.
Ready to own one?
A plumber can size, supply and install a tank or tankless heater and arrange any permit. Gas units need a TSSA-registered contractor. See water heaters.
What size should a new one be?
It depends on how many people live in the house and how many bathrooms run at once. The plumber sizes the replacement to your household rather than copying the old tank.
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