Why Your Electric Water Heater Is Whistling
At City Plumbing & Rooter, we receive calls from customers who are concerned about strange noises coming from their plumbing, including
hot water heaters. One common noise customers report coming from their electric water heaters is a high-pitched whistling sound. So, what causes electric water heaters to whistle, and how can it be fixed? Let our professionals help!
Water Heater Tank Sediment
The most likely cause of a whistling sound in an electric water heater is the build-up of sediment in the tank. Over time, minerals and other impurities can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, forming a layer of sediment. When the water in the tank heats up, bubbles can form in the sediment layer, causing it to vibrate and create a whistling sound.
Faulty Heating Elements
Another possible cause of whistling in electric water heaters is a faulty heating element. If the heating element is damaged or corroded, it can create a high-pitched sound when it heats up. In some cases, the sound may be accompanied by a popping or crackling noise.
Other Causes for Water Heater Whistling
In rare cases, a whistling sound may indicate a more serious problem, such as a malfunctioning pressure relief valve or a blocked vent. If you hear a whistling sound coming from your hot water heater, it's important to have it checked by a professional plumber to ensure that there are no safety issues.
Fixing a Whistling Water Heater
Fortunately, in most cases, a whistling hot water heater can be fixed relatively easily. If the cause of the noise is sediment build-up, the tank can be drained and flushed to remove the sediment. This should be done by a professional plumber to ensure that it is done safely and effectively. If the cause of the noise is a faulty heating element, the element will need to be replaced. Again, this should be done by a professional plumber to ensure that the new element is installed correctly and safely, without injury.
Contact City Plumbing & Rooter for Water Heater Solutions
If you hear a whistling sound coming from your electric water heater, don't ignore it! While it may not necessarily indicate a serious problem, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Fixing a smaller issue quickly can help avoid larger and more dangerous issues down the road. Contact the professional team at City Plumbing & Rooter today to diagnose and fix your water heater woes!
