Your water heater may make some noise while running, which is normal. However, some noises indicate a serious problem. If you hear any of the following noises coming from your water heater, contact a professional plumber in Burbank to get it checked:

Banging or Rumbling

Water heaters can make a lot of noise, especially if there is sediment build-up in the tank. This sediment can react with the heating element, causing mini-explosions that create banging and rumbling sounds. Draining the water heater tank can usually take care of the problem. A water hammer (a situation where the water supply is turned off, and then water suddenly floods back into the pipes) can cause pipes to burst. Adjusting the pressure in the system with the pressure-reducing valve can eliminate the water hammer noise.

Crackling/Hissing

If your water heater at home is making crackling or hissing noises, it could be because of an obstruction in the system’s heating element. This is a serious issue and may require you to drain your tank and call a professional for an inspection. If your water heater is running on gas or oil rather than electricity, the crackling sounds may be because of moisture build-up. In this case, you should ask a plumber to check for water pooling around your unit.

Ticking 

If your water heater starts making a ticking noise, it’s most likely because of a sudden change in water pressure. You can try to adjust the pressure-reducing valve to see if that helps. If the noise still continues, you may have to install additional straps or insulation around the water heater or call a technician.

Screeching or Whistling 

If your water heater is making a high-pitched screeching or whistling sound, it is most likely because there are loose valves that are letting air out of the tank. You should check your pressure-releasing valves and your system’s temperature valves and inlet/outlet valves to ensure they are properly adjusted. If you cannot adjust the valves by yourself, you should call a technician for assistance.

Popping

Popping noises from your water heater may be caused by excess sediment in the tank. This can happen when the alkaline in your water reacts with the heating element. Alkaline water contains calcium and magnesium, which can cause rust. Flushing out your tank and replacing the anode rod (the component that reduces sediment and bacteria build-up) may help reduce the noise. If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water purification system may also help reduce rust build-up.

What to Do If You Hear Strange Sounds From Your Water Heater

While neither of these noises is cause for alarm, they can be annoying. If the reason is sediment build-up and it is severe, it can also reduce the efficiency of your water heater. To clean out all the sediment, simply drain the water from the tank and flush it with a garden hose. You may need to do this several times to remove the residue completely.

Conclusion

If you hear strange noises from your water heater, it’s essential to try to identify the noise source. Different types of noises can be caused by other things, so it’s helpful to know what might be causing the noise before trying to fix it. Some common causes of water heater noises include sediment build-up, a damaged heating element, or a loose component. In most cases, these problems can be fixed relatively easily. However, if you’re unsure of what’s causing the noise or how to fix it, it’s always best to call a professional plumber in Burbank to help you.

Candu Plumbing & rooter offers various services, including water heater repair in Burbank and nearby areas. Contact us to know more about the services we offer!