5 Signs Your Water Heater Won’t Make It Through Winter

When the temperatures drop, few things are worse than stepping into a cold shower on a chilly Arizona morning. Your water heater works hard all year long — but as winter sets in, it’s under extra stress to keep up with demand.

If your water heater is showing its age, it might be trying to tell you it’s ready for retirement. Here are five warning signs your water heater may not make it through the winter — and what you can do about it.

1️⃣ Your Hot Water Doesn’t Last Like It Used To

If you’re running out of hot water faster than usual, it’s a red flag. Sediment builds up at the bottom of the tank over time, reducing efficiency and heating capacity. You might notice the water gets lukewarm or turns cold halfway through your shower — a sure sign your water heater is struggling.

💡 Tip: A professional flush and tune-up can sometimes restore performance — but if your unit is more than 10 years old, replacement may be the smarter (and more energy-efficient) move.

2️⃣ You Hear Strange Noises Coming from the Tank

Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds aren’t normal — they’re usually caused by hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. As water heats, trapped air bubbles push through the buildup, creating noise and added strain on your system.

Ignoring this can lead to leaks or tank failure. It’s best to have a licensed plumber take a look before small issues become big problems.

3️⃣ Rusty or Discolored Water

If your hot water looks rusty or tinted brown, corrosion could be eating away at the inside of your tank or the anode rod that protects it. Once rust takes hold, it’s only a matter of time before leaks appear.

💡 Tip: Rust-colored water from both hot and cold taps could point to old pipes instead — a quick inspection can help pinpoint the culprit.

4️⃣ Leaks or Moisture Around the Base

Even a small puddle around your water heater is a serious warning sign. Leaks often start small — a bit of moisture, a slow drip — but they can lead to major flooding if ignored. As tanks age, the metal expands and contracts, creating cracks or weak spots.

If you notice water pooling at the base, call a professional right away to prevent a bigger mess (and a bigger repair bill).

5️⃣ It’s More Than 10 Years Old

Most water heaters have a lifespan of 8–12 years. If yours is approaching or past that range, it’s time to start planning a replacement before it fails completely — ideally before the cold weather sets in or holiday guests arrive.

Newer, energy-efficient models heat water faster, save money on utility bills, and deliver reliable comfort all season long.

Stay Warm All Winter — Call the Pros

Don’t wait for a cold shower to find out your water heater’s on its last legs! The experts at Forrest Anderson Plumbing, Heating & Air can inspect your system, make honest recommendations, and help you find the perfect replacement if needed.

Schedule your water heater check-up today — and enjoy peace of mind (and hot water!) all winter long.

📞 Call us today or schedule online: forrestanderson.net

💧 Forrest Anderson — Keeping Arizona Comfortable For 40+ Years