A water heater is one of the most essential household appliances. It supplies hot water for use in the house for activities such as washing, cleaning, and cooking. Water heaters are not completely quiet, as they do produce noise when in use; however, they should not produce loud or unusual noises that may require the attention of a water heater repairman.
Knowing what causes these noises will, therefore, go a long way in helping you act on them before the situation gets out of hand. In this article, we will look at some of the most probable causes of unusual sounds coming from your water heater and how best to handle the problem.
Sediment Buildup
The most common cause of strange sounds in a water heater is sedimentation. With time, particles of minerals and debris in the water accumulate at the base of the tank. This sediment layer may result in the heater producing popping, cracking, and rumbling sounds when in use. When the water is heated, the air bubbles trapped in the sediment come out and make these sounds.
If sediments are not removed, they will accumulate and hinder the water heater’s proper functioning, which may damage it. To solve this problem, it was recommended that the tank be flushed more often. It will also help to have a professional plumber come and perform this maintenance to rid the unit of sediment and reduce the noise.
Thermal Expansion
Thermal expansion is one of the most common causes of noise production in water heaters. Heating water increases the volume of water and, hence, the pressure inside the tank and the attached pipes. This can lead to pipes and other structural elements creaking, groaning, or even banging as they accommodate the increase in flow rates.
Such sounds are normally not dangerous but can be rather irritating. In order to avoid the problem, an expansion tank can be provided. An expansion tank holds excess pressure, which greatly reduces the amount of noise that results from pressure differences between thermal expansion and the water heater.
Mineral Deposits on Heating Elements
Mineral buildup may also occur on the heating elements of electric water heaters. These deposits lead to cracking, sizzling, hissing, or popping noises when the heaters are switched on. Minerals that accumulate on the heating elements can act as an insulator, decreasing their efficiency and, at times, leading to overheating or failure.
This problem can be avoided through routine machine servicing, such as checking and cleaning the heating elements. If the deposits are too great, the heating elements may have to be replaced to bring the unit back to normal and silence the noise.
Loose or Faulty Components
Rust or other worn-out parts of the water heater may also produce strange sounds. For instance, a loose heating element, loose fittings, or a faulty thermostat will produce a rattle, hum, or buzz sound. If the heating element is faulty, it can sometimes make a shrill, loud squealing or whistling sound.
It is advisable to have a professional plumber come and check the water heater with a view to fixing any loose or faulty components. Problems that result in such complications can be identified early through regular checkups to avoid complications.
Water Hammer
A water hammer is a condition characterized by a rapid flow of water within the plumbing system and then a sudden stoppage or change in direction. This change in direction can lead to hammering or knocking noise in the pipe system. A water hammer occurs when a faucet or a valve is closed suddenly, leading to pressure buildup that moves through the pipes.
Fitting water hammer arresters or pressure-reducing valves can minimize the water hammer. These devices act as shock absorbers and mute the noise, which helps maintain the water heater and plumbing system.
If your water heater is making unusual noises, it may indicate several problems that require professional attention. Failing to attend to these sounds may result in worsening conditions, low performance, and expensive maintenance or overhaul.
A professional plumber can solve these problems through regular checkups and maintenance to avoid worsening them. If you are hearing strange noises coming from your water heater, call Rooter Man Plumbing for help and recommendations to ensure that it is working correctly and without making noise.
