A noise coming from any appliance can be a cause for concern. Sometimes this noise indicates a significant problem, but other times, you shouldn’t have any worries.
If you hear a knocking sound or a popping noise coming from your gas or electric water heater, it’s crucial to have a professional contractor look at it. This blog will explore reasons why a hot water heater makes a knocking noise and possible solutions to fix it.
Scaling From Hard Water
The knocking sound from your water heater tank likely comes from mineral deposits. While safe for humans, these deposits or sediment can be deadly for any water heater tank. This sediment will gather at the water heater's tank bottom, forming scale.
The knocking noise is the result of your tank having less volume. So instead of steam bubbles escaping, they become trapped. The bubbles then rattle around, creating this unpleasant noise.
Essentially, scale refers to just loose minerals caused by hard water. Eventually, your electrical or gas water heater will rust. To prevent this, however, you can take some actions that we list below.
Flushing Your Water Heater
Flushing your water heater can eliminate this sediment build-up. Ideally, it's better to have a professional take care of the problem. You especially want to hire a plumbing repair company if you haven't flushed your water heater in years.
Gather All the Necessary Tools
You'll want to start by gathering all your necessary tools, including the following:
- A garden hose
- Flathead screwdriver
- Sturdy protective gloves
- A five-gallon bucket
Turn Off the Fuel Source
Depending on the type of water heater, you'll need to turn off its electrical or gas fuel source.
Turn Off Your Water Heater Tank Cold Water
Toward your water heater top, you'll find two valves, including a pressure relief valve. One brings in cold water, while the other sends hot water out. The cold water valve should have blue markings. Turn it to a 90-degree angle for the proper cold water to shut off.
Start Draining the Gas or Electric Water Heater
With your drain valve located, run a hot water faucet. Next, attach your hose to the water heater's drain valve. You should see dirty water, indicating you're getting rid of the sediment. To safely drain, make sure to put on your gloves.
You may drain the water inside your bucket and empty it as needed. You can also place the hose next to a basement drain.
Flushing Water Heaters
Start and stop your cold water valve, eliminating excess scale. Next, disconnect your hose, close your drain valve, and shut off your faucet.
Lastly, fill up your tank and ensure no warm air bubbles are present. Then, turn the water heater back on according to your manufacturer's guidelines.
Call Today For Your Frozen Pipe Repair
Alongside maintaining your water heater, you should also prevent frozen pipes. Our MN Plumbing team can fix frozen water pipes, repair toilets, and help with your water filtration system.
Explore our frozen pipe replacement cost by calling us today at (952) 469-8341!