The last thing you want is to wake up without hot water, even as the weather gets warmer. If you want to avoid water heater problems, watch for these five signs that it's time to replace your water heater.

1. Age

As badly as you want your water heater to last forever, that's simply not the way things work. Water heaters can last for a long time, and that's only if they're maintained properly. If your water heater is more than 15 years old, it's probably time for new water heater installation.

2. Energy Costs

If your water heater isn't working right, you might notice a spike in your recent energy bills. If you've confirmed that other things aren't the cause of these higher energy bills like your HVAC unit, your water heater may be the culprit. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters use about 20% of the total energy your home uses. High energy costs may mean it's time for a replacement, but only a water heater professional can confirm if that's the case.

3. Leaks

Have you noticed a pool of water around your water heater or even an active leak? Water heater leaks can be fixed as long as it's a pipe or fitting leaking, but there's nothing you can do about a leaking tank. If your water heater tank is corroded and starting to leak, it's time to upgrade to a new water heater.

4. Rusty or Metallic-Smelling Water

The water that comes out of your faucets should be clear, and it shouldn't have a strong smell or taste to it. If your water has an orange tint to it or smells or tastes metallic, that might be a result of sediment built up in your water heater.

5. Lack of Hot Water

You rely on your water heater for hot water, so there's a real problem if your water is cold or lukewarm. A lack of hot water is often a sign of a bad heating element or thermostat, but it may be time for a new water heater installation if replacing the elements and thermostats doesn't help.

As a homeowner, it's up to you to keep an eye out for potential problems before they become more expensive problems. If you're in the market for a new water heater, call the water heater installation experts at Morgal Plumbing Industries, LLC, and we'll take care of everything.