While water heaters will typically last for around a decade, replacement is something that you should eventually consider. If you have noticed rising energy bills, leaks, or strange sounds or smells coming from your water heater, replacement is likely on the horizon. Also, if you are faced with expensive repair bills, replacement is something to consider. Traditional water heaters tend to last between eight and 12 years before they need replacement. If you want to have a water heater replacement, here are three questions to keep in mind.

Should You Upgrade?

While you can replace your current water heater with the same type of unit, it may be an excellent time to consider an upgraded system. If your old water heater never seemed to produce enough hot water, you may want to go with a higher gallon capacity. There are also plenty of energy-efficient options on the market. Replacing your water heater is a great opportunity to see energy savings. You can even go with a new type of water heater. Many homeowners decide to make the switch from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless option.

What Is Your Budget?

Another thing to keep in mind when replacing your home's water heater is your budget. While there are plenty of upgrades available, you want to find a new unit that fits your budget and that will be cost-effective in the long run. Water heater replacement can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars. Traditional water heaters are the most economical choice for most homes. Tankless water heaters are a bit pricier, but they have longer lifespans than conventional water heaters. When choosing a new water heater, you want one that both meets your needs and that fits within your budget.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Finally, if you are installing a new water heater, another thing to consider is how long the installation process will take. This will vary depending on the type of water heater you choose and the space where the installation will happen. If you are replacing your old water heater with the same kind of unit, it will take less time overall. A traditional tank water heater will take around two to three hours to install. Tankless water heater installation takes more time, usually between eight and 10 hours in total.

If you are looking into a new water heater, there are a few things to know. First, replacement is a fantastic time to consider upgrading your water heater. However, it's also essential to think about your budget. Conventional water heaters are less expensive than tankless options. Installation time is also something to keep in mind. Tankless water heaters do take longer to install.