What Your Water Heater's Noises Are Telling You

A water heater should run quietly. When it starts making noise, it's trying to tell you something. Learning to read those sounds helps you address problems before they become failures.

Popping or rumbling

This common sound comes from sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As water heats beneath the sediment, it bubbles up through it. Flushing the tank usually solves it.

Crackling or hissing

On gas heaters, this can indicate condensation or sediment. On electric models, it may mean a heating element is covered in scale.

Ticking or tapping

Often harmless, this comes from pipes expanding and contracting. But persistent loud ticking is worth checking.

Screeching or whistling

This usually points to a valve that's not fully open, restricting flow.