Water heater noises are more common than you might think. Homeowners often notice sounds like popping, banging, or whistling from their water heater units. While some noises may be harmless, others could indicate a more serious issue. Understanding these sounds can help you determine what steps you can take before calling a professional.
In this guide, the expert plumbers at Village Plumbing & Air explain the most common causes of water heater noises and what can be done to fix them.
Popping or Vibrating Noises
If you hear a popping or vibrating noise from your water heater, it’s often due to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This happens when minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water settle and form a layer over time. As the heating element works to warm the water, it has to push through this layer of sediment, causing the popping sound.
Pro tip: Get regular water heater maintenance to have your tank flushed consistently. Draining your tank can help remove the sediment and prevent further buildup.
Banging or Rumbling Noises
A banging or rumbling noise could indicate a water hammer issue, which happens when water suddenly stops or changes direction in the pipes, creating a loud banging sound. This can stress your pipes, potentially leading to leaks or burst pipes.
Another possibility is that sediment buildup is disrupting the flow of water in the tank, causing the rumbling noise. This type of water heater issue should be repaired by a professional plumber.
High-Pitched Whistling Noises
If your water heater emits a high-pitched whistling sound, the issue might be from a valve not fully opening or closing. When water flows through partially open valves, it creates a whistling noise. This could happen with either the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve or inlet/outlet connections.
Persistent Hissing or Crackling Noises
Are you hearing a persistent hissing or crackling noise? This is often a sign of moisture buildup or sediment covering the heating element in electric water heaters. While an occasional hiss is normal as moisture burns off, constant noise means sediment or another issue is blocking the heat from transferring properly.
Pro tip: Have a plumber flush the tank to clear any sediment that might be covering the heating element. If you have a gas or oil furnace, moisture can also collect in the burner area, so checking the system for leaks or excess condensation might resolve the problem.
What to Do If Your Water Heater Is Making Noises
If your water heater is making persistent or loud noises, it’s important to address the issue quickly. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn off the water heater: If you suspect a serious problem, shut off your water heater to prevent further damage.
- Avoid DIY repairs: Attempting repairs on your own could worsen the issue or void any warranties.
- Call a professional plumber: Whether it’s a minor fix or a serious problem, water heater repairs are best left to an expert to ensure safety and efficiency.
Choose Village Plumbing & Air for Water Heater Repairs in Houston
When your water heater is acting up, you can rely on Village Plumbing & Air for prompt and professional service. Our certified technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair any water heater issue, whether it’s sediment buildup, a faulty valve, or a heating element issue.
We’ve been helping Houston homeowners maintain their water heaters since 1946, and our customer satisfaction speaks for itself.
If your water heater is making noises, don’t wait — contact us today to schedule water heater repairs.
