Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It quietly provides the hot water you need for showers, laundry, dishes, and more. But like any appliance, water heaters don’t last forever. An older, outdated system not only struggles to keep up with demand but can also cost you more money and create unnecessary risks. Knowing how to manage an aging unit—and when to consider water heater replacement—can save you stress and money in the long run.