Water heater repair isn't an easy task to do. Older hot water heaters can last up to 12 years without a problem. However, once they have been on for that long, they become more likely to fail and begin to lose their heat output. And while many of us wait until our water heater has completely failed before shopping for a new one, there are certainly advantages to replacing your unit earlier... even if it seems like the worst idea in the world. Here are several reasons why it's better to get your water heater repaired sooner rather than later: Leaks - If you notice that water is dripping from your faucet or showerhead, then chances are that your plumbing is faulty. Most leaks are caused by a clogged drain valve. This can be easily fixed by contacting a plumber, who can use a special wrench to remove the drain valve and replace it with a new one. In fact, many times a plumber will be able to fix the leak without needing to replace the heater. Leaky Hoses - When your plumbing syst...