Are you dealing with a water heater making noise you can’t explain? As the trusted plumbers in Paramus, NJ, Titanium Plumbing & Heating can diagnose and promptly fix the issue. From Bergen County Community College to Van Saun County Park, we help our friends and neighbors enjoy all the benefits of modern living.
The Most Common Causes of Unusual Paramus Water Heater Noises
What are the most common reasons your device makes concerning sounds? You can likely blame one of the following causes.
Excessive Sediment Buildup: Popping and Crackling
Accumulating sediment is among the most frequent problems with these appliances, and it causes widespread issues. The buildup occurs when hard water evaporates, leaving the formerly dissolved minerals solidifying in the tank.
This complication usually produces a crackling or popping noise. It indicates the water is bubbling up to the surface before bursting. Flushing the tank can restore the appliance to its peak condition.
Rapid Metal Expansion: Ticking and Tapping
During the heating process, the components in your appliance expand. They then contract after cooling off. Over time, this loosens components.
The changing size of the metal pieces often manifests as a ticking or tapping sound. This usually doesn’t cause any reason for concern. However, if the sound annoys you, a plumber can inspect the device and tighten any loose connections.
Rising Pressure: Whistling or Hissing
Why is the water heater making noise? Whistling or hissing sounds often indicate an issue with high water pressure. Like a teapot, the appliance has a valve that expels the steam to prevent a dangerous explosion.
Sediment buildup often causes this common problem. As the minerals accumulate, the vapor has less room to expand.
If you hear the sound but the pressure release valve doesn’t work, consider it an emergency. Plumbers can fix the problem with straightforward repairs.
Loose Pipe Connections or Joints: Banging or Pounding
Do you hear a loud banging sound shortly after turning on the hot water? This event, known as water hammer, happens when the pipes rapidly expand and bang against each other.
The sound rarely indicates a major problem, but many homeowners prefer to address it. The solution could require a simple tightening of the pipe joints or may benefit from improving the building’s plumbing insulation.
Excessive Age: Various Sounds
Traditional water heaters last around 12 years, but tankless models have a life expectancy approaching 20 years. As it reaches old age, problems become more frequent and severe.
You may notice more unusual sounds caused by unique troubles. If your appliance is over a decade old, don’t delay scheduling an inspection at the first concerning sign.
Strategies for Caring for Your Appliance
Even energy-efficient water heaters experience wear and tear. To help your device last longer and require fewer repairs, practice the following habits.
Keep the Thermostat at a Moderate Setting
The thermostats for this appliance range between 115 and 130 degrees. Temperatures outside this range are either ineffective or unsafe.
However, the higher the thermostat, the faster sediment builds. Unless your Paramus home has problems with Legionella bacteria, keep your temperature at 120 degrees to avoid searching, “Water heater making noise.”
Stay Vigilant for Concerning Signs
When repairs go unaddressed, they eventually grow severe enough to require a new water heater. When you know the following signs, you can schedule an appointment at the first indication of trouble:
- Low water pressure
- Lack of lasting heat
- Unusual smells like rust or mold
- Brown or yellow discoloration
- High water bills without explanation
- Visible damage or leaks
Improve the Property’s Plumbing System
The overall quality of a property’s plumbing can affect the operation of a water heater. Consider installing a whole-home water softener to greatly reduce sediment buildup. Also, improve the insulation in your pipes to prevent extreme temperature changes.
Prioritize Yearly Maintenance
Like any major appliance in your home, annual checkups save money in the long term. The appointment includes flushing the system and replacing the anode rod. It will also prevent minor problems from turning into major issues.
Contact Titanium Plumbing & Heating for Reliable Paramus Plumbing Repairs
At Titanium Plumbing & Heating, we deal with your water heater making noise using expert insight and competitive prices. We can determine everything from the reasons for the water heater turning off to why the shower smells unusual. Whether you live near Herring Brook or the Saddle River, you’ll benefit from our steadfast professionalism and impressive knowledge.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.