What’s That Sound My Water Heater Is Making?
You’ve had your water heater for a few years now, and fortunately it hasn’t encountered much trouble up to this point. Lately, however, you’ve noticed that it makes a loud popping or rumbling noise when it runs. You’re probably wondering what this means for your water heater, and whether you should be worried.
A water heater is one of those things that homeowners in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania tend to take for granted — that is, until something suddenly goes awry. If your water heater has started making loud or strange noises, it’s definitely time to consider repair or replacement.
What Your Noisy Water Heater Could Be Telling You
The most common cause of a noisy water heater is sediment build-up. Sediment build-up occurs when hard-water minerals like calcium and lime, along with other debris, accumulate at the bottom of the water tank. This build-up can trap water at the bottom of the tank, just above the heating element. When this trapped water is heated and begins to boil, it results in a popping noise.
Over time, sediment build-up can cause your water heater tank to overheat or deteriorate, leading to leaking or even bursting. Sediment can also cover the heating element, causing it to burn out.
When It’s Time to Repair vs. Replace Your Water Heater
Sediment build-up can often be resolved by draining and flushing the water heater. This involves connecting a hose to the drain valve, opening the drain valve to drain the water from the tank, and then flushing the tank with the cold water supply. Though this can be done by the homeowner, it’s best to leave it to an experienced professional who can inspect your unit for related issues and make repairs as necessary.
A professional can also help you decide when water heater replacement is the best option. If your unit has started to leak, for example, this indicates that part of it deteriorated and the unit should be replaced. If your unit no longer produces hot water consistently, that’s another sign that it’s probably time for a replacement.
Discover Your Water Heating Options with Sobieski
Problems with your water heater? Whether it’s making noise or simply isn’t running as efficiently as it used to, Sobieski is here to help. We’ll diagnose your unit and make the right repairs to keep your water heater running at its best. When replacement is necessary, we’ll help you determine which type (standard or tankless) and which model are best for your needs.
Thanks to our current promotions, getting more from your water heater is more affordable than ever. This spring, you can get a water heater safety inspection and sediment flush for only $199! You can also save $200 when you install a new standard tank water heater.
Loud noises coming from your water heater? Call 866-477-4404 or contact us today to resolve the issue once and for all!
