Water Heater Noises: 6 common causes and solutions.
Have you noticed strange noises coming from your water heating system?Wondering what it means?Water heater noise may be a sign of a developing problem.
It is important to figure out what it is trying to tell you before you run out of hot water.
It's a good idea to check your water heater for build-ups.Any material which settles inside your tank is called sedi.It could be sand or other debris which enters the tank with the water.
It can be a small problem, decreasing your unit's efficiency.As it accumulates it can cause a problem if you can't even flush the tank.
As the temperature increases, you will most likely hear this noise.The water expands as it passes through the silt.
As more is collected, the sound tends to amplify.The noise may have reached a critical level if it becomes very noticeable.
You should flush and drain your tank.You can use a solution to get rid of the sludge.If you don't like the idea of using chemicals, try a glass of water.
Limescale is a common problem in areas with hard water.calcium and magnesium are found in the ground and absorbed by the water.
These minerals can be harmful to a water heating system.The minerals separate as the water is heated.
The bottom of the tank can be a problem.There are steam bubbles underneath.The water burst as it heated up.
Try to drain and flush the tank.Descaling may limit deposits if your tank has a heating element.
The noises come from an electric water heater, but they could also indicate trouble.The lower heating element can be buried if the base of the tank is covered.
You need to drain the tank and remove the lower heating element.Use a wire brush to gently remove any remnants after soaking the element in a descaling solution.
Some noises may be heard as the water pressure changes.The pipes and plumbing cause these.
The most common sound caused by changes in water pressure is a tickling noise.The water outlet and inlet nipples have heat traps.The plumbing is connected to the unit by the nipples.
Sometimes the heat trap is the reason for loud noises.You can replace the nipples with a non-heat trap if you suspect this is the cause.
Plumbings and pipes make a lot of noises.As the water leaves the unit through the lines, they expand or contract.
They could be rubbing against the framing of your house when they expand.A tick noise can be caused by loose straps.
Try to find the source by following the sound.All you have to do is tighten the straps.If the noise persists, you can install spacers to stop the pipes from moving.
Reducing the water temperature by a few degrees can prevent the pipes from expanding.Sometimes it's enough to eliminate a noise.
Gas-powered water heaters are more likely to have condensation.Cold water in a tank can cause a lot of condensation.New models use this to their advantage.
The exhaust is very hot when the gas leaves it.The condensation is used to heat the tank.This results in a cooler exhaust which is better for the environment.
You may have a condensation problem if you hear a sizzling noise from your gas-powered water heater.As the water starts to form, it could be dripping onto the burners, sizzling as it hits.This could be a sign of a leak in the tank.
If there are any obvious signs of water around the unit, you can check the immediate area.This should be a job for your plumbing professional.
The water flow is controlled by the valves on your water heater.You might be hearing a sound if the flow is limited.
As the water tries to run through a small opening, you might hear some screaming or screeching noises.The source of the noise may be certain valves.
rust is prevented by an anode rod.It is possible that your local water supply is alkaline.
If your water heater is exposed to high levels of alkalinity, there is a chance of a popping noise.The noise is thought to be caused by this type of metal reacting with the water.
Replacing the aluminum anode rod with a magnesium version would be the best solution.
Loud noises are usually caused when water is shut off.The water flows backwards in your system because it has nowhere to go.The sound is referred to as a water hammer.
It can cause a big problem in your home if it causes a water pipe to burst.It can cause problems with your water heating system.
The water hammer arrestor is a pressure reducing valve.The device absorbs the shock created by the water hammer and protects your plumbing, pipes, and tank.
Tank models are not known to create noises.You can still hear a few pops or ticks.
Clicking is a common noise when the unit is turned on.You can hear various sounds if you live in a hard water area or if there is a build up within the unit.
Water heater noises can be very upsetting.Knowing what they mean will help you track down the cause quicker.
Most noises should be reduced or eliminated by regular upkeep of your water heater.It can help to prolong the life of your unit.
What other noises have you heard?Share your thoughts and concerns in the section below.