If you're a homeowner, you know that maintaining your home can be a costly and time-consuming affair. One home maintenance task that's often overlooked is replacing the water heater. Most people don't think about their water heater until it stops working. There may come a time when you'll have to look into hot water heater replacements. Here are some tips to know when it's time to do so.

Age

One of the main reasons for hot water heater replacements is the age of your current one. The average lifespan of a water heater is about eight to 12 years. If yours is approaching or has surpassed this age, it may be time for a new one. Even if there are no signs of a breakdown yet, you should consider a replacement if you have an old heater.

High Energy Bills

If you've noticed that your energy bills have been steadily increasing, it could be due to your water heater. An old or inefficient water heater will use more energy to heat up the same amount of water, resulting in higher bills. Installing a more efficient model when you replace your hot water heater can help you save money on your household budget.

Frequent Breakdowns

Your water heater may start constantly breaking down towards the end of its lifecycle. Frequent repairs can be costly, and it may be more cost-effective in the long run to simply get a new one.

Lack of Hot Water

If you find that your water heater is no longer able to provide hot water, it's time to research hot water heater replacements. Sediment buildup in the tank or a broken heating element may cause this problem.

Leaking Tank

A leaking hot water heater tank is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. If you notice any leaks, it's important to shut off the power to your water heater and call a professional. A leaking tank will need to be replaced.

If you're thinking about replacing your hot water heater, keep these factors in mind. High energy bills, age, constant breakdowns, a lack of hot water, and a leaking tank are the top five signs it is time for a replacement, according to Forbes. If your hot water heater shows any of these signs, contact a plumbing pro at Plumbing Today LLC today.