What To Do When Your Water Heater Makes Strange Noises

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

So, there are strange noises coming from the water heater in your home, but you aren’t sure what’s causing them. Before you rush out to buy a new one, start identifying the issue by following these steps. 

Determine the Kind of Noise It’s Making

Is it humming? Popping? Crackling? Banging? The kinds of sounds you’re hearing are your first clue as to what might be wrong with your unit. Once you determine what kind of noise it’s making, it’s much easier to address the source of the problem.

Check the Age

Most water heater failures occur when the water heater has reached its life expectancy and the tank begins to rust and corrode. The majority of water heater failures involve leaking or bursting, usually as the result of a deteriorated tank. As a general rule, it’s best to consider replacing a water heater that is more than 10 years old. 

Check for Leaks

If you suspect your water heater is failing, check for water leaking under or around the bottom of the tank. 

Make Sure You Are Up-to-Date on Regular Maintenance

69% of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or sudden burst. For this reason, we recommend checking your home's water heater at least twice a year and having it inspected once a year. By taking care of your unit, you can prevent many minor problems and the noises they cause. It’s recommended that you flush your water heater with a delimiting solution at least once a year to break down limescale buildup inside the tank. It’s also wise to install a water softener, which reduces the amount of minerals in your water, therefore reducing the mineral buildup in your unit.

Still Hearing Strange Noises? 

If your water heater makes a humming or whirring noise, the problem might be that the heating element inside the tank is not secure. Try tightening the element so the water flow can’t jostle it. If you hear banging in the walls of your home, that is most likely caused by the pipes, not the heater itself. Consider installing a water hammer arrestor to keep the pipes from causing damage to your walls. If you hear loud popping or crackling, there may be sediment built up around your unit’s heating element. Consider cleaning the element or, if the buildup is severe, replacing it.

Why SERVPRO?

If all else fails or you run into trouble during routine water heater maintenance, it is always best to trust a professional. A licensed professional will know what to look for and how to fix the problem. SERVPRO of Denton specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility for regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO wants our team to be part of your team! Call us at (940) 514-8779 or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!