Is Your Water Heater making noise? Causes and Solutions

Plumbing

Blog
// Posted by Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.

Many people don't know their water heater is a key appliance at home. It works hard and often needs repairs. When it makes noises, it usually means sediment is building up at the bottom. But, there are other reasons too, like knocking, screeching, and tapping sounds.

Key Takeaways

  • Water heater noises can indicate various issues, from loose components to sediment buildup.
  • Common sounds include humming, banging, whistling, and rumbling, each with its own cause.
  • Addressing water heater noises promptly can prevent further damage and ensure optimal performance.
  • Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank, can help minimize potential issues.
  • Seeking professional plumber assistance may be necessary for certain problems.

What Is the Normal Sound of a Water Heater?

A water heater makes some noise because it's a complex device that heats water for your home. It has many parts that work together. These parts can make different sounds, but most of them are normal.

Understanding the Mechanical Nature of Water Heaters

Water heaters have parts like the burner, heating element, water pump, and pressure relief valve. These parts can make noises. The sounds can vary based on the type of water heater you have, such as gas, electric, or tankless.

Gas-powered water heaters might make a soft humming or clicking sound when the burner lights up. Electric water heaters can produce a faint buzzing or vibrating noise from the heating element. Tankless water heaters might make a slight whirring sound when heating water on demand.

Even though these noises are usually normal, pay attention to any new or strange sounds from your water heater. Unusual noises could mean there's a problem that needs fixing.

Common Water Heater Noises and Their Causes

If you're hearing strange noises from your water heater, don't worry. It's a common problem many homeowners face. There are usually easy explanations and fixes. Let's look at the most common water heater noises and why they happen.

Popping or Crackling Sounds: Sediment Buildup

Popping or crackling sounds come from sediment buildup. Minerals and deposits gather at the tank's bottom over time. This creates a barrier between the water and the heating element.

When the water heats up, steam bubbles form under the sediment. These bubbles then burst, making the popping or crackling sound.

This buildup is common, especially in areas with hard water. While it's not a big deal at first, it can cause problems like reduced efficiency and tank damage if left unchecked.

Banging or Hammering: Water Hammer or Sediment Movement

Banging or hammering noises can come from two things: water hammer or sediment movement. Water hammer happens when water flow stops suddenly, causing it to slam against pipes and valves. This can occur when a faucet or appliance is turned off quickly.

Sediment buildup also leads to banging or hammering sounds. The steam bubbles forming and bursting through the sediment cause the knocking or hammering effect. These noises might be annoying but are usually not a big deal. However, they should be looked into to prevent damage to your water heater or plumbing.

If your water heater is making strange noises often, it's wise to have a professional plumber check it. They can suggest how to fix the issue. Regular maintenance, like flushing the tank, can prevent many common water heater noises and make your equipment last longer.

Whistling or High-Pitched Noises: Restricted Valves

If your water heater makes a high-pitched whistling or screeching sound, it usually means a valve is not fully open or is blocked. This happens when pressured water flows through a small opening, making the sound.

Start by listening closely to find where the whistle is coming from. Is it near the water heater or somewhere else in the plumbing? If it's near the water heater, it might be a valve or connection issue. But, changing these valves yourself can be dangerous because of the risk of steam burns. So, it's safer to call a professional plumber.

Some common reasons for whistling or high-pitched noises in water heaters include:

  • Malfunctioning pressure relief valve (PRV): The PRV is meant to release extra pressure. But if it's not working right, it can whistle.
  • Sediment buildup: Minerals and sediment can gather in the water heater tank over time. This can block the water flow and cause whistling.
  • High water pressure: Too much pressure in the water, over 65 psi, can make the water force through valves and connections, causing whistling.
  • Loose fittings: Vibrations from loose pipe connections near the water heater can also make whistling or high-pitched noises.

To fix these problems, it's best to have a professional plumber check the water heater and plumbing. They can find the cause of the whistling, fix or replace it, and make sure the water heater works safely and efficiently.

Hissing Sounds: Electric Heating Element Issues

If your water heater makes a hissing noise, it's probably the electric heating element. This problem often happens when sediment covers the lower heating element. This stops it from heating the water well.

Possible Solutions for Hissing Noises

To fix a hissing water heater, try these steps:

  1. Flush and drain the water heater tank: Sediment at the tank's bottom can cover the heating element. Flushing the tank removes this sediment and stops the hissing.
  2. Use a descaling product: If flushing doesn't work, try a descaling product. It breaks down and removes mineral deposits around the heating element.
  3. Replace the heating element: If sediment keeps coming back or the element is damaged, you might need a new one. This is a bigger repair that might need a professional plumber.

Fixing water heater hissing sounds quickly can stop bigger problems like a broken heating element or a tank leak. If the hissing doesn't stop or you're not sure why, get a skilled plumber to check and fix it.

Humming or Vibrating: Loose Components

If your water heater is making a humming or vibrating noise, it's probably because of loose parts inside. This issue is common and often easy to fix.

A loose heating element is a frequent cause of this problem. The heating element warms the water and can become loose over time. When it's loose, it makes the water vibrate, causing the humming sound. Tightening the heating element should stop the noise and vibration.

Loose mounting brackets or other parts inside the water heater can also cause humming or vibrating. These parts can wear out or move over time, leading to vibrations and sounds. Checking and tightening these parts can often fix the problem.

  • Loose heating element causing water to vibrate and create a humming noise
  • Worn or dislodged mounting brackets or internal components leading to vibrations
  • Tightening the heating element or other loose parts can eliminate humming and vibrating noises

If the humming or vibrating doesn't stop after tightening parts, you should call a professional plumber. They can find the real cause and fix it for good, making sure your water heater works quietly and efficiently.

Rumbling or Gurgling: Boiling Water Trapped Under Sediment

If your water heater is making a rumbling or gurgling noise, it's likely because of sediment at the bottom of the tank. This sediment traps boiling water, causing the noise and vibrations you hear.

Preventive Measures for Sediment Buildup

To stop water heater rumbling noise and water heater gurgling noise, follow these steps:

  1. Drain a bucket of water from the tank every 3-4 months. This helps remove any accumulated sediment.
  2. Flush the water heater at least once or twice a year. This more thorough cleaning can dislodge and flush out built-up sediment.
  3. Install a water softener. Softening the water can significantly prevent sediment buildup in water heater, reducing the likelihood of rumbling or gurgling noises.

Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid sediment issues and keep your water heater quiet and efficient. By taking these steps, you can extend your water heater's life and save on repairs later.

water heater making noise: Identifying the Source

If you hear strange noises from your water heater, act fast. These sounds could mean a big problem that needs fixing. First, figure out where the noise is coming from to know what to do next.

Listen closely to the sounds your water heater makes. Is it popping or crackling? Or maybe banging or whistling? Knowing the sound can help you guess the problem.

  • Popping or crackling sounds often mean sediment in the tank, causing boiling water pockets.
  • Banging or hammering noises might be from water hammer or sediment moving in the tank.
  • Whistling or high-pitched sounds suggest restricted valves or pipes.

Also, think about where the noise is coming from. Is it the tank, the pipes, or the connections? Knowing this can help you pinpoint the problem and fix it.

By finding the source of the noise, you can fix your water heater. It might be an easy fix or a harder repair. But knowing where the problem starts helps you find the right solution.

Troubleshooting and DIY Solutions for Water Heater Noises

If you're handy and know a bit about plumbing, you might fix minor water heater noise issues by yourself. But, remember, water heaters deal with hot water, steam, and safety risks. It's safer to let experts handle the tough problems.

Trying DIY fixes without the right skills can lead to water damage, injury, or worsening the issue. If the noises don't stop or you don't know the cause, call a professional plumber. They can check and fix your water heater.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Here are signs you should call a plumber for water heater noise problems:

  • The noises are loud, like banging, hammering, or rumbling.
  • The noises come with leaks, changing water temperatures, or other issues.
  • You're not sure what's causing the noises or feel unsure about fixing it yourself.
  • The noises keep happening after you've tried to fix them yourself.
  • You think the problem might be with the electrical or gas parts of the water heater.

Getting a licensed plumber is the best way to troubleshoot water heater noise. They have the right tools, knowledge, and skills to find the problem and fix it right. They can offer DIY solutions for water heater noise or complex repairs.

If you're unsure or don't feel like fixing the issue yourself, don't hesitate to call a plumber for water heater noise. Your safety and the life of your water heater are more important than trying to save money.

Preventing Future Water Heater Noises

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your water heater quiet. By acting early, you can stop annoying noises and bigger problems later. Here are some important tips to keep your water heater quiet and working well.

Maintenance Tips for Quiet Operation

  • Drain the tank often to clear out sediment. Sediment makes popping or crackling sounds. Flushing it once a year stops this problem.
  • Use a water softener if your water is hard. Hard water causes mineral buildup, which leads to noises.
  • Make sure all parts like valves or fittings are tight. This stops rattling or vibrating sounds. Fix any loose pipes or connections that make banging noises.
  • Adjust the temperature and pressure relief valve for quiet operation. This stops hissing or whistling from blocked valves.
  • Get professional help for complex issues like heating element or anode rod problems. DIY fixes can be dangerous and cause more harm.

Keep up with your water heater's maintenance to avoid future noises and keep it running well. Regular checks and early action will make sure your water heater works right for a long time.

Signs of a Failing Water Heater: Beyond Noises

Strange noises from your water heater can warn of trouble ahead. But, there are other signs too. Look out for leaks, rust, and a lack of hot water. These can tell you it's time to think about replacing your water heater before it breaks down.

Leaks are a clear sign of a failing water heater. If you see water around the unit or dripping from it, you have a problem. Fixing leaks quickly is key to avoid water damage and other big costs.

Rust on your water heater is another warning sign. The tank can corrode over time, causing rust and discolored water. Seeing rusty water means you should get a pro to check the unit's condition.

Not having enough hot water can also mean your water heater is failing. If the water isn't hot enough or runs out too fast, it might be the heating element or other parts failing.

If you spot these signs, act fast. Ignoring them can cause bigger, more expensive problems later. Call a professional plumber to check your water heater and suggest repairs or a new one.

Conclusion: Acting on Water Heater Noises

Understanding the sounds your water heater makes and what they mean is key. Sounds like popping, hissing, or rumbling often signal a problem. By finding and fixing these issues, you keep your water heater working well and lasting longer.

Often, you can fix water heater noises yourself. Just adjust valves, flush the tank, or replace the anode rod. But for tricky problems, it's smart to call a licensed Rheem plumber. Rheem has nearly a century of experience and is known for reliable water heaters.

Regular maintenance, like yearly tank cleanings and expert checks, can stop future noises and make your heater last longer. By being proactive and fixing any strange sounds quickly, you keep your hot water system running smoothly. This means you get the comfort and ease you want at home.

HVAC Technician installing a electric heat pump
About Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is a locally owned heating and air conditioning company that provides sales, service, and installation of any type of heating or cooling in your home or light commercial building.

Although the name Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is new, Mr. Richard Gilmer has been in the business of keeping his neighbors comfortable since 1998. As our presence in the HVAC contractors industry has evolved, we decided to change the name of our business to better reflect our commitment to the Middle TN area.

Our core values include implementing economically friendly products and practices to better contribute to the health and home of our customers. We are EPA certified and ensure that all refrigerant is recycled and all equipment is disposed of as per environmentally-safe standards. Our service techs and installers are trained to conduct business with minimal disruption to your daily lifestyle so that the only impact we make is a positive one

FAQ

What are the common causes of water heater noises?

Water heater noises can come from sediment buildup, water hammer, loose parts, blocked valves, or electric heating element problems.

What does it mean when my water heater is making popping or crackling sounds?

Popping or crackling sounds often mean there's sediment in the water heater. This sediment forms steam bubbles that burst as the water heats up.

Why is my water heater making banging or hammering noises?

Banging or hammering sounds usually happen when water hits valves too fast, known as water hammer. Sediment buildup can also cause these sounds.

What causes a water heater to make whistling or high-pitched sounds?

Whistling or high-pitched sounds come from water under pressure going through a small opening. This is often due to a valve not fully opening.

Why is my electric water heater making a hissing noise?

A hissing sound in an electric water heater means the lower heating element is covered in sediment. Flushing and draining the heater can fix this.

What does it mean when my water heater is making a humming noise?

A humming noise usually means a loose heating element is causing the water to vibrate. Tightening the element should stop the humming.

Why is my water heater making a vibrating or rumbling noise?

Vibrating or rumbling noises often come from sediment at the bottom of the tank. This trapped boiling water causes the bubbling and vibration.

How can I identify the source of the noise in my water heater?

Listen to the noise type and try to find where it's coming from. This can help you figure out the cause, like sediment buildup or loose parts.

When should I call a professional plumber for water heater noises?

Call a professional plumber if the noises don't stop or you don't know the cause. Fixing it yourself could lead to water damage or injury.

How can I prevent future water heater noises?

Regular maintenance, like draining the tank and flushing the heater annually, can prevent noises. Using a water softener also helps.

HVAC Technician installing a electric heat pump
About Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is a locally owned heating and air conditioning company that provides sales, service, and installation of any type of heating or cooling in your home or light commercial building.

Although the name Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is new, Mr. Richard Gilmer has been in the business of keeping his neighbors comfortable since 1998. As our presence in the HVAC contractors industry has evolved, we decided to change the name of our business to better reflect our commitment to the Middle TN area.

Our core values include implementing economically friendly products and practices to better contribute to the health and home of our customers. We are EPA certified and ensure that all refrigerant is recycled and all equipment is disposed of as per environmentally-safe standards. Our service techs and installers are trained to conduct business with minimal disruption to your daily lifestyle so that the only impact we make is a positive one

Related Blog Posts

The 2025 Grammy Nominations Are In
The 2025 Grammy Nominations Are In
With a little preparation, you can enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free Grammy night in your home. Whether you're watching the 2025 Grammy Awards alone or hosting a party with friends and family, making sure your heating, cooling, plumbing, and power systems are ready will help ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Read More →
Prepping Your Crossville Home for a Comfortable Election Night
Prepping Your Crossville Home for a Comfortable Election Night
Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet night, election night in Crossville calls for comfort and reliability at home. Here’s a quick guide to getting your heating, cooling, plumbing, and power systems ready for a smooth, worry-free evening.
Read More →
The Annual Cost of a Water Heater Bill Explained
The Annual Cost of a Water Heater Bill Explained
By understanding the average costs and factors affecting your water heater bills, you can take actionable steps to reduce expenses and improve efficiency in your home. Whether through regular maintenance or considering an upgrade, every effort counts.
Read More →
Prepare Your Home for Winter with These Daylight Saving Time Tips
Prepare Your Home for Winter with These Daylight Saving Time Tips
As Daylight Saving Time ends, take the opportunity to prepare your home for winter with essential maintenance tips. From heating and plumbing checks to safety inspections, these simple steps can keep your home cozy, safe, and energy-efficient all season long.
Read More →
Halloween Fun in Cumberland County, TN
Halloween Fun in Cumberland County, TN
Halloween in Cumberland County, TN, offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing or a night of haunted thrills. Make the most of the season by exploring local events and activities that showcase the best of what the community has to offer. Happy Halloween!‍
Read More →
 Plumbing Myths Busted
Plumbing Myths Busted
This guide debunks plumbing myths for homeowners, emphasizing proper maintenance and professional help. Understanding these misconceptions can improve your plumbing system and home comfort.
Read More →
 First Frost: Your Guide to HVAC, Generators, and Plumbing
First Frost: Your Guide to HVAC, Generators, and Plumbing
Prepare your home for winter with our essential guide on HVAC maintenance, generator readiness, and plumbing tips. Discover how to ensure your heating system runs efficiently, keep your generator in top shape for power outages, and protect your plumbing from freezing.
Read More →
Drain Cleaning in Cumberland County: Causes and Solutions for Clogged Drains
Drain Cleaning in Cumberland County: Causes and Solutions for Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a common household nuisance, but understanding their causes and implementing preventive measures can save you time and money.
Read More →
Water Heater Clearance Requirements: Safety Guidelines
Water Heater Clearance Requirements: Safety Guidelines
Proper installation and maintenance of your water heater are crucial for safety and efficiency. By adhering to national and local codes and best practices, you can minimize risks, enhance performance, and prolong the life of your water heating system. Prioritizing safety and compliance ensures reliable hot water access while protecting your home and family.
Read More →
HVAC Technician worker outside working on a ac unit

Need HVAC Service? 
Contact Us Today!

Stay comfortable year-round! Don't wait for a breakdown. Click here to schedule your HVAC repair or installation today!