Is Your Water Heater Making Noise?

As a Columbus area homeowner, you rely on your water heater to provide hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry. But what happens when your water heater starts making noise? Is it normal, or should you be concerned? Let’s learn more about water heater noises, what they mean, and when it’s time to call in the professionals at Ohio Water Heaters for help.

Common Water Heater Noises

Water heaters can produce a variety of noises, each potentially indicating a different issue. Let’s look at some of the most common water heater sounds you might hear:

Popping or Rumbling

What it sounds like:  Imagine popcorn popping or a distant rumble of thunder.

What it means: If you hear this water heater noise, this is often a sign of sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank. As water gets trapped under this layer and bubbles up, it creates these popping sounds.

Is it serious? While not immediately dangerous, sediment buildup can lead to decreased efficiency and eventually damage your water heater if left unchecked.

Screeching or Whistling

What it sounds like: A high-pitched whistle or screech, similar to a tea kettle.

What it means: This usually indicates a small opening somewhere in the system, often in a valve, where water is being forced through.

Is it serious? This can be a sign of high water pressure or a valve that needs adjustment or replacement. If you hear this water heater noise, it’s best to address this promptly.

Knocking or Hammering

What it sounds like: A repeated knocking, like someone tapping on pipes.

What it means: This is often caused by a phenomenon called “water hammer,” where the sudden stop of water flow causes a shockwave in the pipes.

Is it serious? While not usually an immediate threat to your water heater, water hammer can damage your plumbing over time and should be addressed.

Humming

What it sounds like: A constant, low-humming noise.

What it means: In electric water heaters, this can be caused by loose heating elements vibrating.

Is it serious?  While not typically dangerous, a loose heating element can lead to inefficiency and should be repaired.

Ticking or Tapping

What it sounds like: A gentle ticking or tapping, like a clock.

What it means: This is often due to normal expansion and contraction of internal components or pipes as they heat and cool.

Is it serious? This is usually normal and not a cause for concern.

Why Water Heater Noises Are Not Normal

While some minor sounds can be expected, persistent or loud noises from your water heater are generally not normal and should not be ignored. 

Reduced Efficiency: Many water heater noises, especially those caused by sediment buildup, indicate that your water heater is working harder than it should. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

Potential for Damage: Ignoring noisy water heaters can lead to more severe problems down the line. For example, sediment buildup can cause the tank to overheat, potentially leading to cracks or leaks.

Shortened Lifespan: A noisy water heater is often a stressed water heater. Addressing issues promptly can help extend the life of your appliance.

Safety Concerns: While rare, some water heater issues can pose safety risks, such as pressure buildup or gas leaks in the case of gas water heaters.

Water Quality Issues: Some problems that cause water heater noises, like rust or sediment, can affect the quality of your hot water.

What Is Normal with a Water Heater?

To better understand when to be concerned, it’s helpful to know what is considered normal for a water heater:

Occasional Soft Sounds: Very quiet, occasional sounds as the unit heats up or cools down are generally normal.

Brief Running Sounds: You may hear the water heater unit activate and run for a short period as it heats water. This is a normal operation.

Slight Expansion Noises: Minor creaking or ticking due to heat expansion is usually not a cause for concern.

Faint Humming (Electric Heaters): A very faint hum from an electric water heater can be normal, as long as it’s not loud or persistent.

No Visible Leaks: A properly functioning water heater should not have any visible leaks or moisture around it.

Consistent Hot Water Supply: Your water heater should provide a steady supply of hot water without frequent temperature fluctuations.

When to Call Our Professional Water Heater Specialists

While some minor issues can be addressed by homeowners, many water heater problems require professional attention. Here are some situations where you should call in our experts:

Loud or Persistent Water Heater Noises

If the noises are loud, constant, or getting worse over time, it’s time for a professional inspection.

Visible Rust or Water Heater Leaks

Any signs of rust on the tank or visible water leaks require immediate attention.

Water Heater Tank Age

If your water heater is 6-10 years old and making noises, it might be time for a replacement.

Inconsistent Water Temperatures

If you’re experiencing fluctuating water temperatures, this could indicate a failing heating element or thermostat.

Discolored Water

Rusty or discolored hot water can be a sign of internal corrosion in your water heater.

Reduced Hot Water Supply

If you’re running out of hot water faster than usual, your water heater may not be functioning efficiently.

Strange Odors

Any unusual smells, especially a gas odor, warrant immediate professional attention.

The Benefits of Professional Water Heater Services

When it comes to addressing water heater issues, professional services offer several advantages:

Expert Diagnosis: Our trained water heater specialists can quickly and accurately identify the source of the problem, saving you time and preventing misdiagnosis.

Proper Repairs: We have the tools and knowledge to perform repairs correctly, ensuring the longevity of your water heater.

Safety First: Water heaters involve electricity, gas, and high temperatures. Professional handling ensures all safety protocols are followed.

Preventive Maintenance: Regular professional maintenance can catch issues before they become major problems, saving you money in the long run.

Guarantees and Warranty Protection: Many warranties require professional installation and maintenance to remain valid.

Energy Efficiency Advice: Our experts can provide recommendations on improving your water heater’s efficiency, potentially lowering your energy bills.

Listen to Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard to provide comfort and convenience in your daily life. By paying attention to water heater noises and addressing issues promptly, you can ensure its longevity, efficiency, and safety. Remember, while some water heater sounds may be harmless, others can indicate serious problems that require professional attention.

At Ohio Water Heaters, we specialize in all aspects of water heater service, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs and new installations. Our team of expert technicians is always ready to help you diagnose and resolve any water heater problems you may encounter.

If you’re concerned about any water heater noise, or if it’s been a while since your last maintenance check, give us a call. We’re here to ensure your water heater runs quietly, efficiently, and reliably for years to come.

Remember, when it comes to water heaters, silence is golden. Let’s work together to keep your home comfortable and your water heater humming along quietly. Contact us today.