You’re sitting in your home, minding your own business, when all of a sudden you hear hissing, banging and other weird noises coming from your basement. Upon further investigation, the culprit making all that racket is the water heater. What could be wrong?
A loud water heater isn’t dangerous per se, but it can be annoying to live with. Plus, it could signal a problem that you should address sooner rather than later to avoid a costly headache.
Loud Water Heater: Causes
Your water heater may be making noise for any number of reasons, but the most common reason is due to built-up sediment. When water flows into the heating tank, it brings with it small bits of sediment that stay behind. As new water filters through the layers of sediment, you may hear loud noises such as hisses, bangs, cracks, or screeches.
Other causes include:
- Worn elements: When sediment and minerals collect on the internal components such as elements, cracking and sizzling noises can result. You may have to replace these elements.
- Water flow is restricted: When water is restricted from properly flowing through the tank, you may hear a hissing sound. Perhaps the emergency shut-off valve isn’t on completely, or there is a kink in the water supply line.
- Heat Trap Nipples: These keep water inside your tank but when there is a big fluctuation in pressure, you may hear ticking or tapping sounds.
- Temperature Pressure Relief Valve: The T&P valve relieves pressure on your water heater when the pressure gets to be too much.
- Leaks and Condensation: If you hear a sizzling sound, water may be dripping on the burner assembly, arising from a leak or from condensation.
- Water Hammering: This happens with sudden pressure fluctuations, as they make the water in the tank move rapidly back and forth.
What to Do
In the event you hear noises coming from your water heater but can’t locate an obvious cause, call a plumber in Austin. They can visit your home, troubleshoot the situation and let you know what the culprit is. They can then recommend the appropriate repair. If the component in question is damaged beyond repair, you may have to consider total replacement.
You may also consider installing a water softener system in your home that helps to remove the sediment and keep your heater clean. If your water heater is very old, it may just be time for a new one. Newer models will help you save on energy bills and enjoy greater convenience.
It’s always best to call a plumber if you are experiencing water heater problems. If you attempt to fix the problem on your own, gas leaks, flooding, and burns could result.
Contact L&P Plumbing
Don’t take the risk of a DIY repair on your water heater. Call our plumbers in Austin instead. Just contact us today to make your appointment.
