Water Heater Making Noise? What Popping, Rumbling & Hissing Mean
Water heaters are supposed to be quiet. When yours starts talking, it is telling you something specific.
Popping or rumbling
This is the most common water heater noise in Indiana, and hard water is the reason. Minerals settle on the bottom of the tank; water trapped under the sediment boils and bursts through it. Flushing the tank often solves it. If the sediment has hardened, the tank is overheating its own steel and its life is shortened — time to talk about replacement.
Hissing or sizzling
Water is dripping onto a hot surface — usually a small leak from a fitting or the relief valve onto the burner area. Have it checked before it becomes a flood.
Screeching or whistling
Restricted water flow through a partially closed valve or a failing inlet valve. Easy fix for a plumber.
Ticking
Often just pipes expanding and contracting, but a loose strap can also cause it.
Prevent it next time
Annual flushing and a water softener dramatically reduce sediment and extend water heater life. Our water heater repair technicians serve Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Carmel and all of Indiana.