It can be a little confusing if your water heater starts making noises all of a sudden. Is it a normal consequence of regular usage? Or is there something wrong with it? The truth is that sometimes those noises indicate a problem, while other times it’s nothing to worry about. Here are some of the reasons why your water heater might be noisy.
Sediment Buildup
If your water heater is making a sound like a pop, that’s probably an indication of sediment buildup. When water gets trapped underneath sediment, steam bubbles develop as the water heats and eventually pop. You can use a water softener to remove mineral buildup in the tank and eventually eliminate the popping sound.
Valve Not Fully Open or Closed
A sizzling noise from a water heater usually indicates that the water flow is being restricted. Check your temperature and pressure relief valve. If there is water leaking out of the valve, shut down the water heater and contact a professional plumber – this is a serious problem.
Water Pressure Fluctuations
A ticking sound is a result of changing water pressure in the plumbing. Many water heaters have heat traps built in to comply with utility incentive programs. If the ticking sound is coming from these traps, they can be removed to eliminate this sound, but keep in mind that the efficiency of the water heater will be impacted.
Composition of Water Supply
A noisy water heater that makes a popping sound could also indicate that the composition of your water supply has changed. In particular, it can indicate that the water supply has a high pH level and your water heater uses an anode rod made out of aluminum. This problem can be remedied by replacing the aluminum anode rod with one made from magnesium. Afterward, use a nonacid lime descaler to break down the buildup of minerals in your water tank.
Helping Keep Your Water Heaters in Great Shape
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 your noisy water heater (or just about anything else 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, Twitter, and Pinterest.