Popping and crackling sounds are normal for a popcorn popper or a bowl of Rice Krispies.
But what if those cracking, popping, and banging sounds come from the water heater? What the hey?
It’s unnerving, but is it dangerous? Is the heater on its way out? Is it about to explode?
Relax, friends — the problem is much less serious than it sounds, and there’s probably an easy fix.
But don’t relax too much. The problem will only get worse if you ignore it.
Sediment Causes the Popping Sounds (Probably)
Water heaters don’t make popping noises when they’re working as designed.
Exploding particles cause the popping and crackling. Particles of what, exactly?
Sediment particles. Scale and lime deposits.
The “clear” water from your tap is chock full of minerals. Orange County’s water is notoriously hard, laden with mineral-rich sediment that settles at the bottom of your water tank. Sediment encrusts your water heater’s tank, the heating element, and anything else it touches. Heat only aggravates the problem.
When you run the hot water:
- A surge of hot water exits the tank;
- Cool water enters the tank to be heated;
- The current created by this water exchange stirs up sediment;
- Hot sediment from the bottom of the tank comes in contact with cooler water entering the tank and explodes;
- Dozens of tiny explosions make your water heater snap, crackle, and pop.
Why Is Sediment So Noisy? The Particles Are Tiny, Right?
Sediment likes to party. It makes a racket when it does. That’s one explanation, but not the correct one.
The real reason is that sediment sticks in clumps. Another name for clumping sediment is “scale,” or the buildup of a chalk-like substance. When it breaks away, particles of various sizes produce explosions with varying degrees of loudness.
Solving the Sediment Problem & Ending the Noise
The solution is to flush the sediment, a DIY repair to restore your heater to its quiet and efficient self.
In cases of thickly caked scale or water heater damage, where you may have to replace parts, you’ve passed the point of DIY. Do the smart thing and call a plumber or appliance professional.
How to Flush Your Water Heater
- Turn off the gas valve (or electrical power if you have an electric heater).
- Shut off the valve controlling water flow into the tank.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve on the bottom of the tank.
- Open a hot water faucet somewhere in your home to release air pressure and make it easier for the sediment to flow out with water.
- Drain several gallons from the tank until clear (or nearly clear) water exits, indicating most sediment has been flushed.
- Flush as much sediment-laden water as possible to reduce the chances of plugging your new anode rod or other parts with scale.
- Close the drain valve and turn on the gas or power supply.
- Turn on the incoming water supply. Let it run for a few minutes until all air is purged from lines, then check for leaks around valves, pipe connections, and other fittings.
- If all is good, turn up the thermostat and enjoy your quiet heater!
Large chunks of sediment may not fit through the drain valve. Sediment may clog the drain valve, making it impossible to flush your heater.
If this happens, try gently stepping on the hose a few feet away from the drain valve. This may force air or water back into the valve, pushing out the blockage. If it doesn’t, call the plumber. You have a significant sediment problem on your hands.
The amount of calcium and magnesium in water determines its hardness. Harder water can leave unwanted deposits on fixtures like sinks, showers, and toilets and appliances like water heaters.
In some cases, extreme water hardness can necessitate frequent draining and flushing. This can be frustrating, as it means constantly monitoring and maintaining your hot water system.
- Untreated sediment buildup can damage or corrode parts of the water heater — leading to costly repairs or premature replacement.
- Test your home’s tap water for hardness levels. Take any steps necessary to mitigate problems caused by hard water.
- Install a water-softening or a whole-home filtration system, or flush your water heater twice a year.
- And keep an ear out for popping and crackling sounds. These are telltale signs that it’s time to flush out that sediment!
FAQs: Water Heater Noises
Q: Is it normal for my water heater to make cracking sounds?
Cracking sounds can occur as mineral deposits on heating elements expand and contract during the heating process. Though common, frequent cracking may be a sign of excessive sediment accumulation.
Q: Can water heater noises indicate a serious problem?
Persistent and loud noises like popping, cracking, or rumbling suggest a significant sediment build-up, potentially damaging your water heater if not addressed.
Q: How can I prevent my water heater from making noises?
Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank annually to remove sediment, checking the anode rod, and inspecting heating elements, can prevent noise and extend your water heater’s lifespan.
Q: Will draining my water heater stop the popping sound?
Draining and flushing your water heater removes sediment that causes popping sounds, effectively reducing or stopping the noise.
Q: Are cracking sounds in an electric water heater different from those in a gas water heater?
Cracking sounds are common in both heater types. However, these sounds may also result from the burner operation in gas water heaters.
Q: Can ignoring water heater noises lead to leaks?
Yes. Ignoring the problem can lead to even more sediment accumulation, which can cause overheating and damage to the tank.
Q: How often should I inspect my water heater to avoid noise problems?
We recommend inspecting your water heater at least once a year to check for sediment build-up, anode rod condition, and any clues of wear or damage.
Q: Can installing a water softener reduce water heater noises?
Answer: A water softener reduces mineral deposits, decreasing sediment build-up and related noises in your water heater.
Q: Should I consult a professional if my water heater makes unusual noises?
If routine maintenance doesn’t stop the noises, or if you’re unsure of the cause, call a plumber to inspect your water heater and remove heavy sediment accumulation.
Q: Is it expensive to fix a noisy water heater?
The cost of repair depends on the underlying issue. Simple maintenance, like flushing, can be inexpensive while repairing or replacing damaged components will cost more.
Q: Could a noisy water heater indicate that it needs to be replaced?
Yes. Even after maintenance, persistent noises could signal a more severe issue, necessitating replacement, especially if your water heater is old or showing other signs of failure.
Q: Do water heater noises affect water quality?
Not directly, but the sediment causing them can lead to rust and corrosion inside the tank, compromising water quality.
Q: Can insulating my water heater reduce the noise?
Insulating your water heater can help it maintain the desired water temperature more efficiently, but it may not significantly sediment and scale build-up.
