Sediment Build-Up:

One of the most common reasons for a noisy water heater is sediment build-up. Sediment collects at the bottom of the water tank, causing pops and cracks in the pipes as the water heats up and the bubbles pop. It's essential to regularly flush your water heater to remove this sediment, as it can cause damage, reduce your unit's efficiency and life span, and even generate unpleasant odors. Contact a professional plumber in Atlanta who can help you flush your water heater and prevent sediment from building up in the future.

Mineral Deposits:

Another reason for a noisy water heater is mineral deposits build-up. In areas with hard water, there is a higher concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium in the water. These minerals can settle at the bottom of the water tank and cause banging noises as the water heats up. To fix this issue, install a water softener, which will remove mineral deposits from your water, making it less harsh on your water heater and, in turn, quieter.

Loose Heating Element:

A loose heating element or a broken dip tube can cause noise in your water heater. The heating element screwed inside the tank can loosen from vibration after extensive use. In contrast, a broken dip tube can cause cold water to mix with the hot water prematurely, leading to strange noises. Call a professional plumber to address these issues and avoid a potential explosion of the tank, which could cause significant damage.

High Water Pressure:

High water pressure is another cause of a noisy water heater. When pressure is too high, it can cause a range of problems, including noisy pipes and a pounding sound in your water heater. A licensed plumber can help diagnose and address your high water pressure issue to prevent further damage to your water heater.

Old Age:

Water heaters have an average life span of 10 – 13 years, and if your unit is older than that, the noises could be a sign that it's nearing the end of its life. In this case, replacement may be necessary. A professional plumber can help assess the situation and advise if a new unit is required.

Depending on the issue, fixing the issue may just be as simple as reducing your water pressure, draining debris or mineral deposits, tightening a loose heating element, or replacing an aging unit. If you're ever unsure what is causing it and how to go about fixing it, reaching out to a licensed professional plumber is always a wise decision to avoid any further damage or costlier repairs down the line. When in doubt, regular maintenance and inspections of your hot water tank can prevent noisy issues from turning into bigger problems and save you time and money. Act soon for those pesky sounds so you know exactly what you're dealing with; contact our experts at Superior Plumbing today for the peace of mind that comes from knowing how to solve any water heater woes.