Keep reading to better understand the various noises a water heater may make and what these noises mean.
Rumbling
Sediment build-up is a regularly occurring issue with hot water tanks, especially if you live in areas that are known to have hard water. These mineral deposits settle inside the tank causing a range of problems. When the hot water in the tank heats and expands, it pushes through the sediment to the top of the tank, which causes the sediment to shift against the sides and bottom of the water tank, resulting in a rumbling sound. Experienced DIYers may be able to flush and drain the hot water tank with a long hose in order to remove the sediment, or you could try using a descaling solution to break down limescale within the tank. However, if you are not experienced with plumbing, it’s advised to have a professional plumber in once a year to flush the tank.
Popping
Popping, like rumbling, is most often caused by limescale and sediment build-up within the tank. The sound is created when steam bubbles form under the sediment, then burst as the water heats up. A quick solution is to use a descaling product to help break down the limescale and minerals, but it may be better to flush and drain the tank to remove any built-up sediment. Additionally, popping sounds can be caused if an aluminum anode rod within the tank is exposed to high levels of alkalinity. A plumber can fix this issue by replacing the aluminum anode rod with a magnesium anode rod.
Sizzling, Hissing, or Crackling
Sizzling, hissing, and crackling sounds are mostly heard from electric water heaters. They are typically attributed to sediment build-up in the base of the tank, which can be addressed by annually flushing and draining the water heater. These sounds occur when the lower heating element is buried by sediment. However, irritating noises aren’t always the only symptom of this problem. Expect the heating bills to go up as the water heater struggles to heat the same amount of water with a greatly reduced ability to produce heat from the lower heating element. A gas-powered water heater can also make sizzling sounds, though the problem isn’t the same. Sizzling sounds in a gas water heater are caused by internal condensation, which makes a sizzling sound when it drips down onto the burners. The formation of condensation in the tank could be a sign that there is a leak within the tank. It’s recommended to call a professional plumber to deal with this issue.
Ticking
Changes in water pressure, efficiency-boosting heat trap nipples, and loose pipe straps can all cause ticking noises in and around the water tank. The good news is that most of these causes are not actual problems that need to be solved. As long as changes in water pressure are not frequent and dramatic (like rapidly opening and closing the main building control valve), then this won’t cause any damage to the system. Similarly, efficiency-boosting heat trap nipples actually improve the functionality of the water heater, though if the ticking sound is really irritating, these parts can be switched out for non-heat trap nipples. Loose pipe straps aren’t a serious issue, but it is a good idea to fix this problem by tightening or replacing the pipe straps. This will stop the ticking sound and also prevent the pipes from shifting. Alternatively, lowering the heat by a few degrees may reduce the expansion of the pipes and stop any ticking sounds.
Screeching, Screaming, or Singing
Any high-pitched noises that sound similar to the whistling of a boiling stovetop kettle would fall into this screeching, screaming, and singing category. These sounds are typically produced when the flow of water through a valve is significantly restricted. The first thing to do is check the temperature and pressure relief valve that is usually located on the side of the water tank. This valve is intended to allow water to escape the tank if the pressure inside becomes too great. If the source of the sound is this relief valve, immediately turn off the gas, electricity, and water to the tank and call a plumber. If the sound isn’t coming from the temperature and pressure relief valve, it may be coming from the inlet valve, the outlet valve, or any nearby water lines. Make sure that any valves are fully opened and check the lines for any kink or deformations that may be restricting the flow of water. If the lines are damaged or the sounds continue, call a plumber to help rectify the situation.
Banging or Hammering
Most people have heard the term water hammer: It refers to a banging or hammering sound produced by the plumbing system when the water is forced to stop or change direction abruptly, resulting in a pressure surge within the system. Water hammer has the potential to burst pipes in the home and could even lead to the expansion and deformation of the water tank. Contact a plumber to help deal with this situation and consider installing a water hammer arrestor or pressure-reducing valve to address recurring issues.
