What Sort of Noises Come From a Water Heating Unit?

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Schedule regular maintenance to your water heater.

Is It Normal For Water Heater To Make Noise?

Houses can be full of a lot of strange noises. When you hear creaks and groans, you may wonder if the sounds are from your Columbia, TN, home settling, or larger issues with piping. Even your water heater can start to make some unseemly noises.

• Screeching: Have you been hearing a sound reminiscent of a scream? This could be a sign that a valve in your heater is not opened all the way. As the water flows through the smaller-than-normal opening, it creates a screeching sound.

• Humming: A loose heating element can start to vibrate as the water heats up around it. This problem can be addressed by tightening the element.

• Tapping: This noise is often harmless when it comes from your water heater. As the liquid inside starts to cool down, it may cause a tapping noise.

• Rumbling: Sediment buildup is common in older units. If you hear a rumbling, it could be a sign that some buildup is being stirred around in the unit. As the chunks hit the sides and heating elements, it causes a rumbling.

• Crackling: Sediment can also lead to a popping or crackling sound. When the buildup is caked onto the heating element, water may get trapped beneath the residue. As the water warms up, it is forced back through the residue with a loud popping noise. A regular water heater flush can help you avoid this noise.

• Knocking: Knocking in your pipes is usually associated with a change in water pressure. If a faucet is quickly turned off, the pipes may shake from the sudden change. As they shake, they may hit the walls in your home and cause you to hear a knocking sound.

Some noises that come from your water heater could be a sign of a problem. Because you want your heater to continue working for years to come, it may be beneficial for you to schedule a regular inspection with a residential water maintenance team.