Beware the Haunting Sounds Coming From Water Heaters

Fall is a great time to inspect and observe some critical appliances and systems that allow a house to remain comfortable through the winter. During the winter, furnaces and water heaters have to work overtime to keep homes warm and provide hot water to its inhabitants. Often, problems with these critical systems are first noticed by the spooky noises coming from them; water heaters are no exception. 

Water heaters are usually out-of-sight and out-of-mind for most homeowners. They get installed in a closet out of the way and work faithfully for years until problems arise. Repairing and replacing water heaters can be an expensive hassle. By paying attention to the noises that a water heater makes, homeowners can stay on top of potential problems brewing.  

Popping Sounds in the Tank

Popping noises coming from a water heater’s tank are one of the most common complaints from homeowners. Popping noises are an indicator of problems caused by a lack of maintenance. In a perfect world, homeowners would drain hot water tanks at least annually to remove excess build-up of sediment on the bottom of their hot water tank. However, most homeowners go years without flushing their tanks. 

When tanks aren’t drained regularly, sediment settles out on the bottom of a hot water tank. As burners ignite to heat the water in the tank, water begins to boil underneath the sediment. The boiling is what produces the popping noise. To prevent popping noises from occurring, homeowners can practice good maintenance or install water softeners to keep excessive minerals out of their plumbing. 

Screeching in the Plumbing

Screeching noises can be especially spooky sounds to hear from your plumbing. Screeching is another indicator that a hot water tank needs repair. The source of the haunting sound is caused by flow restrictions in the water heater. 

Flow restrictions can result from bad valves or mineral build-up within the tank and the associated plumbing. As valves age, they can begin to fail and start to work themselves shut, causing flow restrictions. Valves can be checked to verify they are open, but they will need replacement if broken. Additionally, softeners and good maintenance practices can help prevent restrictions caused by a mineral build-up,and if there’s just too much in the tank, it can always be flushed out.

Crackling From the Burner 

Crackling sounds generally come from the burner of a gas-powered water tank. Crackling noises indicate water is getting onto the burner either from a leak in the tank or condensation forming on the burner. If the source of the sound is from a leak on the tank, water heater repairs should be scheduled immediately. 

If the source of the sound is from condensation, a professional should be called out to inspect the water heater. Condensation is usually an indication that ventilation is blocked to the burner. A professional can verify that enough airflow is getting to the burner and that flues are not blocked. 

About Albert Nahman Services 

Albert Nahman Services has been providing exceptional water heater services to the Berkeley area for over 30 years. Always striving to provide the best customer service, this company provides the most competitive warranties in the business. They help customers avoid surprise costs with their industry-leading upfront pricing.