A water heater isn’t something most homeowners think about—until it stops working. Tucked away in a basement, garage, or utility closet, it quietly does its job for years. But like any major appliance, it doesn’t last forever. As a water heater ages, it can become increasingly inefficient, unreliable, and expensive to maintain. What starts as a minor inconvenience can quickly turn into a series of hidden costs that impact both your comfort and your budget. Video Source Understanding these costs—and knowing when replacement makes more financial sense than repair—can help you avoid unexpected disruptions and make a smarter long-term decision.…