Why Is Your Old Hot Water Heater Grumbling And Rumbling?

If your decades-old hot water heater grumbles and rumbles during the day, it may need repairs. Water heaters can make some slight sounds as the water heats up inside them. But water heaters should never rumble or grumble when you use them. Your water heater could need immediate attention from a plumber. Learn why your hot water heater grumbles and rumbles below.

Why Does Your Water Heater Rumble and Grumble?

Water heaters rumble, grumble, and make other loud noises when they build up with sediment. Various types of minerals float around in your home's water supply. Some of the minerals in your water can clog the tank over time. If the tank contains too many minerals, it will eventually stop heating water.

You could flush out your hot water heater to see if you can remove or dissolve some of the sediments from it. If your water heater still rumbles and grumbles after you flush it, call a plumber. The appliance's pipes could be rusted.

How Can a Plumber Help and Why?

The metal pipes and fixtures inside your water heater can rust and corrode with time. If chunks of rust break off from the corroded parts inside the water heater, the debris can cause problems for the appliance. A plumber can check the pipes inside your water heater to see if they're the cause of the loud noises you hear. 

For safety, a plumber will drain and depressurize your hot water heater before they work on the appliance. Once the appliance is empty, a contractor will access and examine the anode rod, the dip tube, and the upper and lower heating elements for corrosion. A plumber may also check the temperature relief valve and vent connector pipe for damage. If some or all of these parts require replacements, a contractor will do so immediately. 

If the parts inside your water heater appear secure and stable, a contractor will check your water heater's tank for advanced signs of damage. Extensive rust, pinprick holes, and other advanced structural problems can make the appliance unusable and potentially dangerous in the future. If signs of severe damage show up in your hot water tank, replace the entire appliance.

One of the most essential things you can do after the repairs or replacement is to maintain your water heater properly. Routine maintenance can help keep the parts inside your water heater free of corrosion and problems.

If you're concerned about your noisy hot water heater, call or email a plumbing company for services today.