Understanding Why Your Water Heater is Making Noise

Hearing your hot water heater making noise can be quite unsettling, especially if it’s a new occurrence. This blog post will help you understand the reasons behind the various sounds you might hear from your hot water heater.

The Common Noises of Water Heaters

Water heaters, both gas and electric, can make an array of noises, such as popping, hammering, sizzling, screeching, or crackling sounds. Each noise may indicate a different issue with the water heater. It is crucial to understand what they mean and how to sort them out.

Popping and Crackling Sounds

A familiar sound you might hear from hot water heaters is a popping or crackling noise. This sound often indicates sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water accumulate inside the tank. When the heating element heats the water, steam bubbles form under the sediment layer and then ‘pop’ as they escape.

Sizzling Sounds

If you hear a sizzling sound from your water heater, it could be due to water leaking onto the heating element. The water evaporates quickly due to the heat, causing a sizzling noise. Leaks could cause significant damage to your water heater and surrounding areas, so it’s crucial to address this issue quickly.

Hammering Sounds

A hammering sound, also known as water hammer, often occurs when water flowing through the pipes is suddenly shut off. This abrupt stop can create a shockwave, resulting in a loud noise. It’s a common problem in water supply systems and can increase water pressure, potentially damaging the pipes and the heater.

Screeching Sounds

Screeching sounds are typically due to a partially closed control valve. When the valve isn’t fully open, it traps water, creating a high-pressure environment. This situation produces a screeching noise as water tries to pass through.

The Impact of Cold Water on Hot Water Heaters

When cold water enters the hot water tank, it can also create noise. The cold water cools down the bottom part of the tank, where the heating element is located. This sudden temperature change can cause the metal to contract, resulting in a loud noise.

How to Address Noisy Water Heaters

The good news is that most of these issues can be fixed with regular maintenance and proper care. For instance, flushing the tank regularly can help reduce sediment buildup. Adjusting the control valve to ensure it’s fully open can eliminate screeching sounds. However, it’s essential to remember that not all noises and issues can be fixed at home.

Install a Powered Anode Rod

Corro-Protec is designed to help stop a noisy hot water heater by addressing one of its most common causes. Sediment built-ups are often the result of hard water, and they tend to accumulate at the bottom of the tank. As these sediments harden over time, they can cause a myriad of issues, including noise.

The Corro-Protec system uses a powered anode rod. This technology not only protects your water heater from corrosion but also significantly reduces sediment buildup.

By preventing sediment build-up, Corro-Protec helps stop the noises associated with this issue and noises coming from air in the hot water. The popping or crackling sounds decrease and lead to a quieter operation of your hot water heater.

Calling a Professional Plumber

If the noises persist despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. You may possibly suspect a leak. An experienced plumber will diagnose the problem correctly and offer the most suitable solution to ensure your water heater functions optimally. In the case of electric water heaters, a certified electrician might also be necessary to handle electrical components safely.

Regular Maintenance

Preventive maintenance goes a long way in keeping your water heater quiet and efficient. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and fix potential issues. It is always wise to do so before they cause significant problems or lead to water heater failure.

In the subject at hand, the Corro-Protec powered anodes will help with sediments gathered at the bottom. It will also prevent the pressure from rising.

Conclusion

While a water heater making noise can be disconcerting, understanding the cause of the noise can help you take appropriate action.

Remember, while some minor issues can be fixed at home, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for more complex issues.