Why Is My Water Heater Making Noise?

Any unusual or strange noises coming from your water heater are never a good sign. When your water heater starts making rumbling, popping, screeching, crackling, or hissing noises, you have a problem on your hands. In this article, we will highlight several reasons why a water heater may be making unusual noises.

Sediment Buildup

This is the main culprit behind a noisy water heater. Over time, the sediments and particulates in your water build up inside your water heater’s tank. For tankless water heaters, the deposits can accumulate inside the unit’s heat exchanger, thereby impacting water flow. The sediment can interfere with the heating process and cause popping or knocking sounds. As the sediment builds up, it will put extra strain on the tank, potentially creating groaning or banging sounds. Sediment buildup can reduce your water heater’s efficiency and reduce the amount of hot water available. If you don’t address the issue early enough, it could lead to premature water heater failure. Sediment buildup can wreak havoc on your water heater, so it’s important to take quick action to prevent further issues. This problem can be addressed by flushing your water heater tank.

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How to Flush a Water Heater

Step 1: Turn off the water heater and wait for the water to cool.
Step 2: Attach a drain house to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater tank and direct the hose to a nearby drain or a large bucket.
Step 3: Turn the knob to open the drain valve, and hot water will start draining out of the tank.
Step 4: Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve.

If you’re not comfortable flushing your water heater yourself, call a professional plumbing service that specializes in water heater repair to help you.

How to Prevent Sediment Buildup in Water Heater

Drain your water heater at least once a year to remove any sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the tank.
Install a water softener if you live in an area with hard water.
Keep your water heater's temperature setting around 120 degrees Fahrenheit—higher temperatures can accelerate mineral deposits and sediment buildup.
Consider having a professional plumbing service inspect your water heater.

Faulty Heating Element

A conventional electric water heater uses a heating element submerged in the water tank to directly heat the water. Tankless models heat the water directly as it passes through the unit. Heating elements in water heaters have a finite lifespan, meaning they will deteriorate as a result of normal wear and tear. Electrical problems can also cause heating element failure. When the heating element fails, your water heater may produce sizzling, hissing, or crackling noises. You should never ignore unusual noises coming from your water heater because they are an indication of a problem that needs to be addressed. Other signs you have a bad water heater element include circuit breaker trips, not hot water, and water won’t reach the set temperature. If your water heater is acting up and you’re suspecting a faulty heating element, call a professional plumbing repair service for water heater repair.

Loose T&P Valve

A water heater has a pressure relieve valve (T&P valve) that protects the appliance from excessive pressure buildup. This valve is located on the top of the heater. If the T&P valve becomes loose, your water heater may produce a high-pitched screeching or whistling sound. A loose T&P valve is a safety concern, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and call a professional plumbing repair service to repair or replace the valve.

Contact Rooter Man Plumbing For Tankless Water Heater Installation and Water Heater Repair

If your water heater is acting up and you need professional help, contact Rooter Man Plumbing. We are a premier plumbing company offering a full range of water heater services, including tankless water heater installation, water heater repair, water heater replacement, and more.

10 / Apr / 2024