Why Your Water Heater is Making Noises and What to Do About It

Hearing popping, banging, or rumbling from your water heater? While it might sound like your unit’s about to explode, these noises are usually a warning sign that your system needs attention, especially in Texas, where hard water and sediment buildup are common culprits.

Let’s break down the possible causes of water heater noise, why it’s a bigger problem in Texas, and what you can do to fix it before it leads to costly repairs.

What’s Causing That Noise in Your Water Heater?

Different sounds can point to different issues. Here are the most common types of water heater noise and what they typically mean:

Popping or Crackling

Usually caused by mineral sediment hardening at the bottom of the tank. As water heats, it bubbles through the sediment, causing a popping noise. This is especially common in areas with hard water, such as San Antonio (12–15 GPG) or the Rio Grande Valley (15–18 GPG).

Rumbling

As the sediment layer thickens, it traps hot water and steam beneath it. The expanding bubbles create a rumbling sound as they force their way through. This reduces your unit’s efficiency and lifespan.

Sizzling or Hissing

May indicate a leak onto a hot surface or scale buildup on the heating element. This is common with electric water heaters.

Tapping or Ticking

It can come from thermal expansion or loose plumbing connections. Not usually harmful, but worth checking.

Why This Happens More in Texas Homes

In regions with high water hardness, calcium and magnesium particles settle in your tank over time. Without a home water softener, these minerals form a thick sediment layer that causes heating elements to overwork, leading to noise, inefficiency, and eventually tank failure.

What You Can Do About It

Don’t ignore these sounds, especially if your water heater is older or hasn’t been serviced recently. Here’s how to address the issue:

• Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup

• Install a water softener system to prevent hard water damage

• Replace the anode rod if it’s corroded

• Call a licensed plumber if the tank is leaking or the noises worsen

Sweetwater Home Services offers professional water heater solutions, as well as whole-home water softeners, that protect your investment in the long term.

When to Replace Instead of Repair

If your water heater is over 10 years old and is making persistent noise—even after flushing—it might be time to consider upgrading. Newer, high-efficiency models are better equipped to handle Texas water conditions and come with more extended warranties.

Our team serves homeowners throughout Austin, San Antonio, and the Rio Grande Valley, providing expert installation, maintenance, and water softening systems specifically designed for Texas homes.