December 12/2024

Why Is My Water Heater Making Noise?

A low humming sound when your water heater is in operation is normal and should be no cause for alarm. However, strange sounds like loud banging, screeching, and whistling are an indication of water heater trouble. Today, Mr. Rooter Plumbing looks into some of the reasons why your water heater may be making odd noises and the possible solutions.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the plumbing company you can trust for all of your water heater needs, including tankless water heater installation.

Sediment Buildup

This is one of the most common reasons for a water heater making noise. Odd noises like banging, popping, or rumbling can indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. The noise is a result of the sediment heating up and expanding. You may also notice other signs such as discolored water, reduced hot water flow, and higher energy bills.
To remove sediment buildup, you can flush your water heater tank by following these steps:

• Step 1: Turn off the power supply to your water heater, either at the breaker box or by turning off the gas supply.
• Step 2: Turn off the cold-water supply valve to your water heater.
• Step 3: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Direct the other end of the hose to a floor drain or outside.
• Step 4: Open the drain valve slowly to allow the water to flow out.
• Step 5: Turn on the cold-water supply valve to allow cold water to flow through the tank for a few minutes to flush out any remaining sediment.
• Step 6: Close the drain valve and turn the power back on.

If the sediment buildup is severe, it’s advisable to replace the hot water tank. Call a professional plumbing repair in Brick Township, NJ service to help you replace your deteriorating hot water tank.
Our plumbers recommend you drain and flush your water heater twice per year to prevent sediment buildup. A water heater flush improves heating speed, reduces heating costs, and extends the life of the appliance. If you have hard water in your home, consider installing a water softening system to address the problem once and for all.

Faulty Heating Element

A standard water heater comprises a heating element submerged in the water heater tank. As the name implies, the purpose of the heating element is to heat water by passing an electric current through it. When this component fails, it can produce buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds. These noises may be accompanied by other issues such as circuit breaker trips, hot water running out quickly, and lukewarm water. Repairing a faulty heating element yourself can be dangerous. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional plumber for safe and efficient repairs.

High Water Pressure

The normal water pressure should range from 40 to 80 PSI. If the pressure of the water flowing into the water heater tank exceeds this limit, it can cause unusual noises. Left unaddressed, excessive water pressure can damage water heater fittings and cause premature failure. Call a trusted plumbing repair service to resolve water pressure issues in your home.

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Water Heater Repair

Is your water heater making strange noises, and you can’t seem to figure out what the problem is? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for a professional inspection and water heater repair. We are the plumbing contractors you can count on when you need professional and affordable water heater services. Our specialists can diagnose and fix a wide range of water heater issues, including a broken heating element, a leaking tank, low water pressure, a malfunctioning thermostat, pilot light issues, and many more.