Water Heater Making Noise? What Popping, Rumbling and Hissing Mean
A noisy water heater is trying to tell you something. Here is a quick translation guide from our water heater repair technicians.
Popping or rumbling
Sediment has settled at the bottom of the tank and water is boiling underneath it. The fix is a professional flush. If it has gone on for years the tank may be damaged — water heater repair can tell you.
Hissing or sizzling
Usually condensation or a small leak dripping on the burner. Check for water around the base; a leaking tank means water heater replacement.
Screeching or whistling
Often a partially closed inlet valve or a failing T&P relief valve. Both are quick repairs.
Ticking or knocking
Pipes expanding as they heat, or water hammer. Pipe straps and arrestors solve it.
Thinking about an upgrade?
If the unit is over ten years old, a tankless water heater delivers endless hot water with no tank to fill with sediment.
Need a plumber now?
24/7 service in every California city. Upfront pricing.
Related Services
Get Help in Your City
- Water Heater Repair in Los Angeles
- Water Heater Repair in San Diego
- Water Heater Repair in San Jose
- Water Heater Repair in San Francisco
- Water Heater Repair in Anaheim
- Water Heater Repair in Irvine
- Water Heater Repair in Sacramento
- Water Heater Repair in Fresno
- All cities
More Plumbing Guides
- Toilet Keeps Running? Causes, Fixes & When to Call a Plumber
- Low Water Pressure in House: 7 Causes and How Plumbers Fix It
- Sink Drains Slowly? How to Fix a Slow Drain Before It Clogs Completely
- Water Dripping From Ceiling: What to Do Right Now
- Sewage Smell in House: Causes and How to Get Rid of It
- Brown Water From Faucet: Is It Safe and How Do You Fix It?
- Hot Water Runs Out Fast? 6 Reasons and the Best Fixes
- How to Find the Best Plumber Near Me in California (2026 Guide)
- What to Do When a Pipe Bursts: A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide
- Water Heater Repair vs Replacement: How to Decide
- 7 Signs You Need Sewer Line Repair (Before It Backs Up)
- Clogged Drain Emergency: 5 Things NOT to Do (and What Works)
- Smell Gas in Your House? What to Do and Who to Call