What are some of the most common water heater sounds, and do they mean that you need a visit from the plumber? Read on to learn what noises are not typical!
Every appliance in your home, including the furnace and the water heater, will make a certain amount of noise as it operates. However, some sounds are concerning and require help from an experienced plumber. What are some of the most common water heater sounds, and do they mean that you need a visit from the plumber?
Banging Sounds
This is one of the most common water heater sounds, and it is not necessarily something to worry about. When sediment accumulates in the bottom of the tank, banging and clanging sounds may occur when the water is heated. This is due to the pressure of the water breaking through the layers of sediment. While the sound itself is not an immediate cause for concern, you should have your water heater professionally drained to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible.
Hissing or Crackling
Do you have an electric water heater? This is one of the most common water heater sounds in electric heaters specifically. A slight hissing sound occasionally is not out of the ordinary, but noticing a persistent crackling sound means that you should call a plumber. This sound can indicate an issue with the heating element in the water heater. By removing the obstruction or issue, you can prevent permanent damage to the water heater.
Whistling or Screeching
Any high-pitched noise inside of the home can be alarming, so this one of the common water heater sounds is often something that makes homeowners panic. In most cases, a screeching noise can occur due to valves that are letting air escape from the water heater tank. These valves should be adjusted by a plumber. You are not in immediate danger, but you should have them adjusted as soon as possible.
Popping
In the same way that banging sounds can indicate sediment buildup, popping also commonly indicates too much cinnamon sitting at the bottom of your water heater tank. Flushing the tank is one way to fix this issue, and if it is not resolved, replacing the anode rod can do the trick.
Fix the Common Water Heater Sounds With Master Plumbing
Give Master Plumbing a call at (301) 650-9100, or contact us online to get more information on how our expert plumbers can help you with just about anything plumbing-related! We have received Angie’s List Super Service Award recognition for plumbing and drain cleaning every year since 2007, in addition to the Best Plumber award from Best of Bethesda. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and our service is unparalleled. Give us a call today—you won’t regret it! To see examples of our projects, follow us on Facebook and Twitter!