Is Your Water Heater Trying To Tell You Something?

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Hearing odd noises from your water heater can make you wonder if you have a serious problem. Knocks, taps, rumbles, hums and crackles can leave you wondering if your unit is about to have a major issue.

Some noises are more troublesome than others. Check out these top reasons you might be hearing strange sounds from your water heater.

" Sediment Buildup: Sediments may pile up around the heating tubes of your water heater. When the heating elements are off, water gets trapped below the sediments. As the elements turn back on, a cracking or popping noise starts when the water is forced through the buildup.

Cleaning the elements may help you fix this problem. 

" Loose Elements: Electric water heaters usually have elements installed vertically in the tank. As water flows around the part, a humming noise may be caused. Tightening the element can reduce the noise.

" Temperature Change: If the water in the heater cools down, you may hear a tapping or ticking noise in the heater. This is common and shouldn't concern you.

" Open Valves: Most valves to your water heater should be open. If one is not fully opened, you may hear a screeching sound. You can fix this issue by checking to make sure all of the valves at the heater and at the water lines are open all of the way.

" Sediment Movement: If the sediment buildup in your unit is stirred up, it can produce a rumbling noise. A simple solution would be to do a water heater flush. If you clean the unit with a de-liming mixture, you may see even better results.

The noises you hear in your Bradenton, FL water heater may give you warnings of your maintenance and replacement needs.

If you hear a sound that you can't figure out, remember that many of the noises are nothing to worry about. If it makes you feel better, you can call in a professional for help. SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.