Understanding the Causes of Common Water Heater Noises

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

When turning on faucets or showers, have you been startled by a screeching or screaming sound?

Every home has a water heater, and the majority have tanks. Most water mitigation companies in Cheltenham, PA, will tell you that tanks can create a lot of noise. While all the noises from these essential appliances don't automatically mean a problem is imminent, being aware of the potentially hazardous sounds is necessary.

Rumbling
Knocking
Humming
Screeching
Ticking

Rumbling
If you have an older unit, you may hear rumbling or popping sounds emanating from the heater. The noises often relate to sediment buildup around the element tubes. You can resolve most of the rumbling noises by performing a water heater flush. However, as these noises often occur in older units, you may want a replacement instead.

Knocking
Knocking sounds likely to relate to loose pipes. When water shuts off abruptly, the force causes the pipes to rattle and knock together or against the wall. The knocking is harmless to your water tank, but if left unchecked, you may end up with pipe and wall damage.

Humming
Humming often occurs in electric water tanks. The heating element in these tanks is vertical. As water moves around the component, it can cause vibrations, which sound like humming from outside the tank. By tightening the heating component, you can eliminate or prevent the hum in your water heater.

Screeching
When turning on faucets or showers, have you been startled by a screeching or screaming sound? When a system forces water through small openings, it can cause unpleasant high pitch noises. In most cases, the noise results from a partially open valve. Check and make sure that all valves are completely open.

Ticking
Ticking or tapping sounds are common in water tanks. The check valve or heat trap ensures that hot water flows in the correct direction, which may cause these odd and unnerving sounds. Replacing the heat trap with a dielectric nipple may eliminate the noise.

Every water heater makes noise. Knowing the difference between each sound is crucial for determining appliance needs and repair.