It is still important to conduct regular inspections and perform occasional gas water heater repair to ensure proper functioning and prevent any potential issues. It is recommended to hire a professional plumber or gas technician. Here’s 6 reasons that it’s time to get a new hot water tank install or replaced: Age, Leaks, Lack of Hot Water, Inefficiency, and Rust or Corrosion. According to Garry Richard’s Water Heaters Only rust or corrosion on the tank or pipes is a clear sign that your hot water tank is deteriorating and needs to be replaced.