4 Noises from a Hot Water Heater and How to Fix Them

Water heater typically has a life of around 10-15 years. It can sometimes exceed 20 years for the Tankless ones. However, water heaters, like all appliances, are prone to error. It can create sounds that you do not like. The good news is these sounds are due to some common factors that can easily be rectified.
Here are the four most common noises of water heaters and how you can fix them. But before that a quick disclaimer, we do not condone DIY-ing in extreme cases. A water heater can be best left in the hands of a professional plumber. They have tools and technologies that make detection and repair easier than you can imagine. If you need a water heater repair in Los Angeles, you can contact us today.
Knocking
The water heater’s humming noises are more than simply a nuisance. This is the kind of sound you will get after the water heater has lasted for 3-5 years. They could be a sign that anything inside the machine is loosening. Since older parts are vulnerable to outside weather, they start to wear off and the quality starts to deteriorate. The humming sound is most likely produced by vibrations in the hot water unit, which may be fixed easily if noticed early enough. It must be remembered that the humming sound is not anything serious. Even this water heater can last you for a couple of months or years easily. But just because you can do that, we recommend that you should not. The earlier you resolve any emerging problem the better it is for your water heater.
To fix the problem, turn off your water heater so that you can inspect and tighten the parts that are causing the vibrations. When working on a water heater, use extreme caution because the water within is clearly very hot and can be hazardous.
If you are not confident enough, you should consider calling a plumber. Although this is an easy task, it is not for everyone. So if you cannot do it, let the professional handle it.
Hammering
When water slams into shutoff valves too quickly, a knocking or hammering sound might be heard. This phenomenon, sometimes known as “water hammering,” can be quite loud, but it is rarely a reason for alarm. But this problem usually is not time-specific. The problem could appear right after buying the product. If the water heater is within the warranty period, do not fix it on your own because it may ruin the warranty. Talk to a plumber and try to avail the warranty. On the other hand if the water heater is kind of old, You can follow a few simple steps to fix this.
Purchase a water hammer arrestor at your local hardware shop. Installing one of these should eliminate the knocking noise immediately. If the noise still persists, this might be a bigger issue than it looks like. Consider calling a plumber for a quick inspection and repair of a water heater.
Screaming and screeching
You may have a problem with the check valves in the water lines of your water heater if you hear a scream while it is running. Pressure builds and a high-pitched noise is made when check valves are unable to fully open. This is the kind of problem you cannot solve on your own. Check valves are delicate and you can ruin your entire unit if you try to fix it on your own.
In order to fix the problem, you need to get your check valves evaluated. It’s best to bring in the experts on this one. A plumber will come with the necessary equipment to run a thorough inspection. You should try to call an emergency plumber as, if left alone, this problem can get worse.
Tapping
This is another sign that tells you that your check valves may need to be changed or replaced. but this could also mean that you have a greater problem with sediment buildup in your water tank.
This is another sign that tells you that your check valves may need to be changed or replaced. but this could also mean that you have a greater problem with sediment buildup in your water tank, which is tapping. If the problem is with the check valve, call an expert immediately. If the problem is with the sediment tank, flush your tank. and fill the tank with a vinegar-water solution for 24 hours for sediment treatment.
Plumbing experts recommend hiring someone to evaluate your water heater’s heating components, burner, and check valves.
Lastly, it is important to understand your limit when it comes to water heaters. You cannot solve everything on your own. If you are currently looking for a water repair in Los Angeles, call us for affordable services. Don’t take unnecessary risks when an affordable plumber is just 60 minutes away.