To keep the hot water flowing in your home, it’s crucial to ensure your water heater is kept in good working condition. A reliable water heater supports everything from daily showers to dishwashing and laundry, making it one of the most important plumbing systems in your home.
A good way to keep your unit in check is by paying attention to signs of malfunction, including strange noises. Unusual sounds like humming, clanging, popping, or hissing often indicate underlying issues such as sediment buildup, loose components, or pressure problems. While some minor issues can be addressed with routine maintenance, others require professional attention to avoid system failure or water damage.
In this blog, our expert plumbers at Action Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electric explain common water heater noises, what they mean, which DIY steps may help, and when it’s time to call a licensed professional.
Common Water Heater Noises and What They Can Mean
It’s normal for your water heater to make some noise during operation, especially as water heats and expands. However, loud, persistent, or worsening noises are a sign that something isn’t working as it should. Understanding these sounds can help you act early and prevent costly repairs.
Humming
If you notice a humming sound coming from your unit, it’s often caused by a loose heating element or a failing electrical component. Over time, vibrations can loosen internal parts, creating both noise and potential safety risks. When humming continues, it’s best to call a plumber to repair your water heater before the issue escalates.
Hissing
Hissing is typically heard from electric water heaters and is often caused by sediment buildup on the lower heating element. As water becomes trapped beneath the sediment, it turns to steam and escapes through the buildup, creating a hissing sound. Flushing the tank can help remove sediment, but excessive buildup may require professional water heater maintenance to fully resolve the issue.
Banging
Banging or knocking sounds often point to a water hammer issue, which occurs when water flow suddenly stops or changes direction. The resulting pressure shockwave can strain pipes and fittings. Because water hammer can lead to pipe damage or leaks, professional plumbing service is recommended to diagnose and correct the issue safely.
Popping
Popping noises are commonly caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Steam bubbles form under the sediment layer and burst through, producing a popping sound. Left untreated, sediment buildup can reduce heating efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your water heater, making routine flushing and inspection important.
Running Water
The sound of running water can be normal when hot water is actively being used, but persistent noise may indicate a hidden leak, faulty valve, or pressure issue. Check for visible leaks or pooling water around the unit. If the sound continues, contact a professional for expert leak detection and repair to prevent water damage.
Choose Action for Top-Notch Water Heater Services
Action Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electric is your trusted source for dependable water heater services in Madison, WI, and the surrounding areas. From diagnosing strange noises to full system replacements, our experienced plumbers deliver honest recommendations and long-term solutions.
We offer clear upfront pricing with no upselling, same-day service options when available, and same-day water heater installations for added convenience. As a family-owned company, we focus on doing the job right and treating every home with care and respect.
Learn more about our comprehensive plumbing services and set up an appointment with our team today.
