You’re lying in your bed at night, about to fall asleep, and hear a banging or popping sound coming from your hot water heater. Why is your water heater making noise? There could be a number of reasons, but making noises is the water heater’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Learn about the types of noises that can come from your water heater, what they mean, and when you may need to think about a water heater replacement.
What’s Causing the Noise in Your Water Heater?
Here are some of the causes of common water heater noises:
- Sediment buildup: If your water heater sounds like it’s making popcorn, it may be due to sediment buildup. Some areas of Georgia experience hard water, which contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals build up in your water heater tank, causing a boiling or popping sound.
- Loose heating elements: Humming noises usually indicate a loose heating element. As water flows past the element, it vibrates, producing a humming or buzzing noise.
- Overheating: If you hear hissing or sizzling, your water may be overheating. This could be due to a faulty thermostat or temperature-pressure relief valve.
- Leaks: Another sizzling sound can come from water dripping from the pipes onto the heating element. A dripping sound usually means a leak underneath the tank.
Is a Noisy Water Heater Dangerous?
Most noises indicate an issue with your water heater that shouldn’t be ignored, even though they’re not a cause for alarm. For example, a popping sound from sediment buildup can force your water heater to work harder and become less efficient. This shortens your water heater's lifespan and increases your energy bills.
The hissing sounds from overheating are more of a concern, especially if you see steam. Hissing may be a sign that your tank is building too much pressure and overheating, which is a safety concern because it could cause your tank to fail or even burst.
For gas water heaters, if you smell gas or a rotten egg odor, shut off the unit, evacuate the home, and contact a plumber immediately. Gas leaks are considered an emergency and must be addressed as soon as possible.
Tank vs. Tankless Water Heater Noise
Tank and tankless heaters make different kinds of noises, so it’s important to understand the difference between them.
Tank heaters are more prone to popping sounds because they collect sediment. An old water heater that has never been flushed will be very loud. In tank models, sediment buildup is the biggest culprit of recurring noise.
Tankless heaters don't store water or collect sediment, but they do have their own warning noises. Hard water build-up can still affect the heat exchanger and make a gurgling or rumbling sound. A loud vibrating noise usually means a part, like the fan, is loose or broken.
How To Fix a Noisy Water Heater
There are a few precautions a homeowner can take to stop a hot water heater from making noise:
- Flush the tank: This is the simplest solution to keep sediment at bay in your tank. Flushing involves draining several gallons of water from the tank to remove settled minerals. Ideally, you should do this once a year, but areas with hard water might need to do it every six months.
- Tighten loose components: Only do this yourself if you’re comfortable working with electrical components. Turn off the heater, remove the access panel, and tighten the loose part. If you’re not sure, contact the pros at Ricky Heath.
- Decalcify your tankless model: Decalcifying your tankless water heater once a year helps prevent buildup to improve efficiency and extend the unit’s lifespan.
When To Replace a Noisy Water Heater
Replacing an older, noisy water heater rather than constantly repairing it can save you money and stress. Here’s when to consider replacing your noisy water heater:
- Aging unit: If your unit is in the 10- to 15-year age range and making a racket, it might be time to say goodbye. Other components are probably working less efficiently due to wear and tear.
- Severe sediment buildup: Years of buildup can damage the tank lining, which means the whole unit may need to be replaced.
- Visible corrosion on the unit tank: Your tank is likely nearing the end of its lifespan, and continued use may result in water leaks and damage.
- Rising energy bills: Your unit isn’t working as efficiently as it once did, which is driving up your energy bill.
- Leaking tank: A leaking tank might not be fixable, so you probably need a replacement.
- Constant repairs and the 50% rule: If you’re facing costly repairs that are 50% the price of a new model, it makes the most economic sense to replace it.
Contact Ricky Heath for Water Heater Services
Ignoring water heater noises is a bad idea. The solution may be a simple tank flush, or your water heater could be on its way to failure, leaving you without any hot water at all. Trust the team at Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling to handle all your water heater issues, from sediment buildup to loose components. Contact us to schedule a service with our experienced plumbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to keep using a noisy water heater?
While most noises aren't immediately dangerous, ignoring them can lead to costly repairs in the long run. Your water heater will operate less efficiently, increasing your energy bills and shortening the unit’s lifespan.
Does Ricky Heath service tankless water heaters?
Yes, the plumbers at Ricky Heath specialize in all tankless water heater services. If you’re considering switching from a tank to a tankless model for greater efficiency, endless hot water, and a longer lifespan, contact us today to ask about tankless water heater installation.
Why does my water heater make noise only at certain times?
If the noise occurs mainly when you're using hot water or right after, it's likely due to a problem with the heating cycles, expanding pipes, or changes in water pressure. Sediment popping noises usually happen when the water heater is turned on or when it is actively heating water.
Is it normal for a new water heater to make noise?
Some minimal noise, such as a click when the water heater turns on, is normal. However, a new water heater shouldn't make a consistent noise while it’s working, as this indicates an installation or home water pressure issue.
Should I try to fix a noisy water heater myself or hire a professional?
Some minor fixes for a noisy water heater, like adjusting a valve if you’re comfortable with it, can be done DIY. However, most water heater issues require professional knowledge for safe, long-lasting fixes.
