Your water heater is one of those appliances in your home that you don't think about until it's not working. And by then, it can be a real pain to get it fixed or replaced. So how do you know if your water heater needs to be replaced? Here are six signs to watch out for.

1. Your Water Heater Isn't as Efficient as It Used to Be

One of the quickest ways to tell if your water heater needs to be replaced is by looking at how much energy it's using. If you've noticed a small increase in your monthly bills, or if you have a digital meter on your water heater, take a look. If you find that your water heater uses a lot more power than it used to, it's time to replace it.

2. Frequent Leaks

Another sign that your water heater is getting old is frequent leaks. A small leak or two can be easily repaired, but if you start seeing puddles near your unit, it's time for a replacement. Leaks aren't just inconvenient -- they can also damage the foundation of your home if they aren't stopped.

3. Rusty Water

If your water is coming out looking rusty or rusty brown, that's a sure sign that it's time to replace it. In fact, according to Home Depot, rusting and leaking are the top two most common signs of the need for water heater replacement. Rusty water can be caused by rust built up inside the tank itself. While you might not see any damage on the outside of the unit, there could be significant corrosion happening on the inside, increasing the risk of leak or other malfunctions.

4. No Hot Water

If your water heater isn't producing hot water, it might not be working at all. If you've had a water heater that's been acting up for a while, then this could be the final straw. If it's not heating water when you need it most, it's time to replace it.

5. Frequent Water Heater Repair

A water heater that needs frequent repairs is a water heater on the way out. Think about how many times you repaired your water heater in the last year or two. If it's more than one or two, it might be time to replace your water heater before this problem gets any worse.

6. The Water Heater Is Over 15 Years Old

For water heaters that are more than 15 years old, it's time to start thinking about a replacement. Modern water heaters have come a long way since the original water heaters were first invented, and today you can take advantage of modern conveniences like tankless water heaters.

Water heaters are an essential part of your home's water heating system. If you notice any of these six signs that your water heater needs to be replaced, don't hesitate to call a professional water heater installation service. They can help walk you through the water heater replacement process. Looking for a reliable water heater installation company? Call us today, and one of our water heater installation professionals will be happy to assist.