Hearing sounds coming from your water heater might feel alarming, but it actually is not out of the ordinary. In fact, it is actually common for your water to make noise – it does not automatically mean that something is wrong. You might hear banging or rumbling, crackling and hissing, ticking, or popping. For example, hearing the occasional crackling or hissing sounds is perfectly normal in moderation.
If your water heater begins whistling, it does not necessarily mean that something detrimental is wrong with the structure. However, it can signify that something needs attention.
If your water heater has started making a whistling noise when it never did before, it is not a bad idea to have it checked out. Keep reading to learn more about what may be causing the water heater to make a whistling sound.
What Causes Water Heater Whistling?
There are many reasons why your water heater is whistling. Rather than ignoring the issue, you may want to address it before a larger problem occurs. The following are a few of the reasons why your water heater might have suddenly started whistling.
The Tank Has Cracked
Since you likely do not look at your water heater all the time, it is not uncommon for it to develop a crack without you realizing it. If your water heater does have a crack in it, it will most likely start whistling. This whistle is a result of air escaping or entering the tank itself. Unfortunately, if your water heater tank has cracked, you are more than likely going to need to replace it.
Worn Out Inlet and Outlet Connections
There are two connections on your water heater – the inlet and the outlet. These connections will wear out over time. One connection lets the cold water in, while the other lets hot water out. The hot water connection is more likely to be the one to wear out first. Regardless of which connection has started to wear out, you will likely hear a whistling sound as a result.
Loose Drain Valve
Over time, sediment is likely to gather at the bottom of your water heater. These sediments may include things such as sand and grit, which usually come from municipal water lines. The purpose of the drain valve is to allow you to drain those sediments from the tank. If the sediments are not drained, your tank may not function quite as well as it did before.
However, the sediment is not what will cause that whistling sound to come from your water heater. If the drain valve gets loose, it will actually create a whistling sound similar to that of a worn inlet or outlet connection. The air is able to escape in or out while the drain valve is loose.
Keep in mind that to increase the functionality of your water heater, you will want to drain the sediment at least once a year.
It’s Just The TPR Valve
Your water heater has a valve called the temperature pressure relief valve – and it’s job is exactly what it sounds like. The TPR valve will open up and allow pressure to escape the tank. This happens when there is too much buildup within the unit.
Typically, you do not hear the TPR valve because it does not need to kick in unless the pressure has reached a dangerous level. However, when it does happen, you are likely to hear a whistling sound coming from your water heater. This just means that the TPR valve is doing its job and is keeping the pressure within the designated safe levels.
Is Water Heater Whistling Dangerous?
The whistling sound coming from your water heater may seem a little scary. But is it dangerous? In short, no, a whistling water heater is not necessarily dangerous. However, it does signal that something is almost definitely wrong with the water heater. If you have checked to make sure all of the connections are secure and there are no cracks in the tank, it may be best to contact a trained professional.
A water heater whistling is not exactly a normal noise if it is functioning properly. You want to make sure that you solve the issue with the water heater before it turns into a bigger and more problem.
Sediment Build-Up Causing Whistling
One common issue that can lead to a whistling water heater is sediment build-up. Over time, minerals and debris from your water supply settle at the bottom of the water heater tank. This sediment can affect the efficiency of the water heater and cause unusual noises, including whistling.
How Does Sediment Cause Whistling?
When sediment collects in the bottom of your water heater, it can trap water beneath it. As the heater warms up, the trapped water gets superheated and turns into steam. The steam needs to escape, and as it pushes its way through the sediment, it can create a whistling sound.
If the build-up is significant, the heater may have to work harder to heat the water, leading to overheating, pressure problems, and more noise. The sound you hear is air or steam being forced through small spaces in the sediment, similar to a tea kettle whistle when water boils.
How to Prevent Sediment Build-Up
To prevent sediment build-up, it’s important to flush your water heater tank regularly, at least once a year. Flushing removes the accumulated debris and can improve the heater’s efficiency, reduce noise, and extend the life of the unit. If you’ve never flushed your water heater before, consider having a professional plumber do it for you the first time, and they can show you how to do it yourself in the future.
Water Pressure Issues Leading to Whistling
Another cause of water heater whistling can be related to high water pressure. Water heaters are designed to operate within a specific range of water pressure. If the pressure becomes too high, it can cause a variety of issues, including the release of air or steam, resulting in a whistling noise.
What Causes High Water Pressure?
Water pressure can rise for a number of reasons, such as an issue with the main water supply line or a malfunctioning pressure regulator. If the pressure gets too high inside the tank, the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve will open to release the excess pressure, which can create a whistling sound as air or steam escapes.
High water pressure can be dangerous for your water heater and your home’s plumbing system, as it can lead to leaks, burst pipes, or even a damaged water heater tank.
How to Check and Fix Water Pressure
You can check your home’s water pressure using a water pressure gauge, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. The ideal water pressure for most homes is between 40 to 60 psi (pounds per square inch). If the pressure exceeds this range, you may need to adjust your pressure regulator or have a plumber install one if your home doesn’t already have it.
Lowering the water pressure can not only stop the whistling sound but also protect your water heater and plumbing system from damage.
Blocked or Clogged Vent Leading to Whistling
If your water heater is gas-powered, another potential cause of whistling could be a blocked or clogged vent. Gas water heaters rely on vents to safely expel gases produced during the heating process, and if the vent is blocked, it can cause air to be forced through smaller spaces, creating a whistling noise.
Why a Blocked Vent Is a Problem
A gas water heater needs proper ventilation to function safely. If the vent becomes clogged with debris, such as dust, dirt, or even small animals that may have found their way into the vent, it restricts the airflow. When air can’t flow freely, the gas can’t properly escape, which can lead to a buildup of pressure inside the tank and a resulting whistling noise as the air is forced through the vent or small openings.
A blocked vent can also lead to the dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in your home, which is a serious health risk. If you suspect that your water heater’s vent is blocked, it’s important to address the issue immediately.
How to Maintain the Vent
To prevent vent blockages, make sure to regularly inspect your water heater’s venting system for any obstructions. If you notice debris, nests, or blockages, it’s important to clear them out or have a professional do so. Regular maintenance of the vent ensures that your water heater operates safely and efficiently and reduces the chances of unusual noises like whistling.
Contact White’s Plumbing Today
Do you have a water heater that has suddenly started whistling near the Sanford, North Carolina area? If so, consider contacting White’s Plumbing! Our certified technicians have years of experience handling issues with water heaters. Once we take a look at your water heater, we will be able to diagnose and solve the problem in no time. If you have an emergency with your water heater, we offer a fifteen minute response time on our emergency line.
Contact us today by filling out the form on this page or by giving us a call. Someone will be in touch with you shortly to figure out the most convenient time for you to have a technician stop by your home. We look forward to helping you soon!
