You’re enjoying a quiet evening when you suddenly hear strange popping or banging sounds coming from the water heater. It can sound like popcorn in the basement or a small hammer tapping inside the tank. While the noise might catch you off guard, it’s actually a fairly common issue, especially in homes with hard water.
At Robin Aire Service Company, we often hear from Michigan homeowners who worry that these noises mean their water heater is on its last leg. The good news? It usually points to a fixable problem that starts with sediment buildup.
Why Water Heaters Make Popping or Banging Noises
That popping sound is caused by water trapped beneath layers of mineral sediment inside the tank. When your water heater runs, the water below those layers begins to boil, creating steam bubbles that burst and echo through the tank. Over time, this buildup can thicken and harden, turning gentle popping into loud banging or rumbling noises.
Although your water heater can still operate when it’s making noise, the sound is a clear sign that it’s not running efficiently. The heating element must work harder to warm the water through the sediment layer, wasting energy and wearing down components faster than usual.
How Hard Water Causes Sediment Buildup
Hard water contains naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium. While harmless to drink, these minerals separate from the water as it heats up, settling at the bottom of your tank as a gritty or chalky residue.
Over months or years, that sediment layer thickens and acts as an insulating barrier. Not only does it create the popping noises, but it can also reduce water heater capacity, slow heating times, and shorten the lifespan of the appliance.
Preventing sediment buildup starts with addressing hard water at its source. Installing a water softener can significantly reduce mineral content, protecting your water heater and other plumbing fixtures. Regular maintenance and tank flushing can also keep the system clean and quiet.
What Happens If You Ignore the Noises?
It might seem harmless to ignore a few noises, but over time, sediment buildup can cause more serious issues.
- Decreased efficiency: The heating element must work harder, increasing your energy bills.
- Overheating and damage: Excess heat trapped under sediment can warp the tank or burn out elements.
- Reduced water volume: Sediment takes up space, meaning less hot water for your home.
- Shortened lifespan: A neglected water heater may fail years earlier than expected.
So, is it safe to keep using a noisy water heater? For a while, yes, but it’s not ideal. Those sounds are your system’s way of asking for attention before the problem worsens.
Should I Flush My Water Heater Tank?
Flushing the tank can help remove sediment and quiet those noises. If you’re comfortable handling basic plumbing tasks, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to drain and refill the tank. Make sure to turn off the power or gas before starting, and allow the water to cool first.
However, if it’s been years since your last flush, or if the tank has significant buildup, you may find that flushing doesn’t fully solve the problem. That’s when it’s time to call a professional.
When to Call a Professional
If your water heater continues to pop or rumble after flushing, a technician can safely drain the tank, inspect the heating elements, and remove stubborn sediment. In some cases, the tank lining or heating element may already be damaged, requiring repair or replacement.
At Robin Aire, our licensed technicians service both traditional and tankless water heaters, helping homeowners across Southeast Michigan restore quiet, efficient operation. We’ll inspect your system, test the water quality, and recommend maintenance steps to prevent future buildup.
Call Robin Aire for Water Heater Maintenance
Since 1985, Robin Aire Service Company has been the name Michigan homeowners trust for honest, quality service. Our experienced, background-checked technicians provide professional water heater maintenance, repairs, and replacements, all with upfront pricing and no high-pressure sales.
If your water heater is making unusual noises, don’t wait for it to fail. Call Robin Aire Service Company today to schedule water heater maintenance and stop the popping before it becomes a bigger problem!
