Why Does My Water Heater Make a "Rumbling" Noise?

Hearing rumbling noises from your water heater can be scary. While your water heater may be rumbling or making other kinds of sounds for various reasons, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s broken or going to explode soon. Many noises can be fixed with minor repairs. However, finding out why your water heater is rumbling as soon as possible can save you from the cost of replacing it.

Common Causes of a Rumbling Water Heater

Your water heater may be making rumbling noises due to sediment accumulation. Sediment buildup in water heaters consists of mineral deposits, and the water can be soft or hard, depending on where you live. Hard, mineral-rich water is notorious for leaving behind residue that can form into sediment and accumulate in the water tank if you fail to flush out your water heater regularly.

Water can be trapped due to sediment buildup. Because the water in the tank is surrounded by heat-conducting minerals, it can build up pressure and overheat, causing your heater to rumble as the water pushes through the sediment. If left unaddressed, the pressure buildup and uneven heating can ruin the lining of the tank, resulting in leaks or cracks. When this happens, you will need to replace your water heater.

A rumbling noise can also indicate that cold and hot water are mixing at the tank’s top portion because the dip tube has broken. This will require replacement as soon as possible. Fortunately, you can prevent many strange and scary water heater noises, including rumbling, by preventing sediment buildup

You Can Prevent Your Water Heater From Making a Rumbling Noise

Sediment buildup is among the top causes of water heater noises. A plumber providing water heater services in PA can eliminate sediment buildup by flushing the tank and draining it. A crucial part of proper water heater maintenance is flushing the tank at least once a year. If you don’t have a water softener, consider having one installed to help eliminate sediment before it reaches your water heater.

Whether you have a tankless water heater or a conventional tank-style heater, an experienced plumber can inspect and service your unit to ensure that everything is working properly, including the plumbing, electricity, and gas lines. They can identify what’s causing the rumbling noise and resolve the issue before it gets worse.

Need Water Heater Services in PA? Reach Out to Us Today

At Di Gravio Heating and Plumbing, Inc., our experienced and dedicated team can provide expert and cost-effective water heater services in PA to make sure it works optimally and extend its service life. If your water heater is making a rumbling noise or any kind of noise, or you are having other issues with your water heater, get in touch with our team today. Contact us online or call our office at 610-565-5870 to schedule your appointment and find out how we can help.