Menu

A water heater is an essential appliance in any home, providing hot water for daily activities, such as bathing, cleaning, and cooking. However, unusual noises from your unit can be a cause for concern, prompting the expertise of a professional plumber. While it is normal for water heaters to produce sound during operation, weird sounds show an underlying problem. High Speed Plumbing can help you understand the common causes of these noises and recommend effective ways to address them promptly. Let’s look at the common causes of unusual noises you need to know.

image

Sediment Buildup

The most common reason for strange noises is sediment buildup. Minerals and debris in the water can settle at the bottom of the tank over time, forming a layer of sediment. When the water heater heats, it causes the sediment to heat and harden, causing popping, cracking, or rumbling sounds. Call a trusted plumber for tank flushing if you notice these sounds during the heating cycle. Failing to remove the accumulated sediment can exacerbate the problem, causing premature water heater installation projects.

Our Services

image
Water Line Replacement

When your water line starts acting up, it can threaten your home with unexpected leaks or…

Read More
image
Water Heaters 

Whether you’re stepping into an unexpectedly cold shower or noticing unusual sounds from your heater, it's…

Read More
image
Water Filtration Installation

If you want to protect your home and family’s health, the water you drink, cook with,…

Read More

Thermal Expansion

Another frequent cause of noise in water heaters is thermal expansion. As the water heats, it expands, increasing pressure within the tank and causing pipes and other components to creak, groan, or bang as they adjust to the changing water volume. During the initial water heater installation, your plumbing service provider can incorporate an expansion tank to ease pressure buildup and reduce noise caused by thermal expansion. This goes a long way in ensuring smoother operation and longevity.

Mineral Deposits on Heating Elements

In electric water heaters, mineral deposits can accumulate on the heating elements, causing them to make sizzling, hissing, or popping noises when heating water. These deposits insulate the heating elements, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing overheating or component failure. Regular water heater repair and maintenance by a trusted plumbing service can prevent excessive mineral deposit buildup and mitigate associated noise issues.

Loose or Faulty Components

Loose or faulty components within the system can also contribute to unusual noises. Vibrations from a loose heating element, loose fittings, or a defective thermostat can cause rattling, humming, or buzzing sounds. Also, a malfunctioning heating element may produce a high-pitched whining or screeching noise as it operates. A trusted plumbing repair service can conduct routine inspections and replace faulty parts, eliminating these noises and the risk of further damage.

Water Hammer

A water hammer occurs when the water flow is suddenly interrupted or redirected within the plumbing system, resulting in a loud banging or knocking noise. This phenomenon often occurs when a faucet or valve is closed abruptly, causing a surge of pressure that reverberates through the pipes. Installing water hammer arrestors or pressure-reducing valves can help minimize the occurrence of water hammer and reduce associated noise levels, protecting the integrity of the plumbing system and water heater.

Strange noises from a water heater can show various underlying issues that require the expertise of a plumbing repair service. Ignoring these noises can cause further damage and inefficiency, resulting in costly water heater repair or replacement emergencies. Contact us at High Speed Plumbing for quality water heater services, including installation, repair, and maintenance, at competitive rates.

Share on :

Our News & Blogs

image
Dec 10, 2025
Hard Water vs. Soft Water: Which One Is in Your Home?

You’ve probably heard about hard water vs. soft water, but have you ever taken a step…

image
Dec 04, 2025
Which Sump Pump Is Right for Your Home? Pedestal vs. Submersible Explained

A reliable sump pump is essential for protecting your basement or crawlspace from flooding. If you…

image
Nov 28, 2025
Repiping vs. Patch Repairs: When a Quick Fix Isn’t Enough

Plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly, disrupting your routine and causing unnecessary inconvenience. Whether it’s a dripping…

image
Nov 24, 2025
Dripping Sounds at Night? Here’s What Your Home Might Be Telling You

Dripping sounds in the bathroom or kitchen at night may not initially raise concerns, but they…

image
Nov 16, 2025
What Every Homeowner Should Know About Kitchen Water Pressure

The normal household water pressure should range from 40 to 70 psi (pounds per square inch).…

image
Nov 08, 2025
Natural Gas Safety: Protecting Your Home and Family from Leaks

Safety is a top priority when it comes to your home and family. With this in…