Whistling water heaters can be alarming, so it’s important to get Houston water heater repair as soon as possible. High-pitched whistling noises are never a good sign from your water heater. Sometimes it can even signal something hazardous. Therefore, it’s important to call us about whistling noises as soon as possible.
Water Heater Whistling? You May Need Houston Water Heater Repair
If you notice your water heater whistling, take these steps to help avoid any issues with your water heater or plumbing:
- Turn off the water heater’s power source. (If it’s a gas water heater, turn the thermostat to the off position and then twist the shut off valve on the gas line. If it’s an electric water heater, turn off the circuit breaker that controls the water heater.)
- Turn off the water supply. (The shut off valve is usually located above the water heater. If water keeps flowing, then turn off your home’s main water supply valve.)
- Inspect the water heater for signs of moisture, leaks, or corrosion.
- Call your Houston plumber.
Often, if your water heater is whistling, then you’ll need a plumber’s help to find and fix the issue. There are several reasons why your water heater may be making this noise, some of which can cause major damage to your home.
Why Is My Water Heater Whistling?
Why might your water heater be whistling? Many different things can cause this strange noise. Any time you hear a high-pitched whistling, it’s important to call your Houston plumbing company. Sometimes a whistling water heater can signal something seriously wrong. Whistling noises often mean you need Houston water heater repair or even replacement.
Your Temperature & Pressure Release Valve Turned On
One of the main reasons you might hear whistling from your water heater is because the temperature and pressure release (TPR) valve is doing its job. However, that doesn’t mean you can simply ignore it and chalk it up to a new ambient noise in your house.
The TPR valve on your water heater is designed to start up and release pressure inside your water heater tank only when pressure reaches dangerous levels (usually about 150 psi). This is to help prevent pressure buildup that can lead to a burst water heater tank. So, if your TPR valve starts up, you may need Houston water heater repair to address the pressure issue.
Houston Water Heater Repair to Reduce Tank Pressure
There are several reasons why your water heater might be experiencing too much pressure:
- The thermostat is set too high: The higher the temperature setting on your water heater, the more pressure inside the tank. Therefore, your Houston plumber will check to see if the thermostat is too high. Generally, the Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater to about 120°F to prevent pressure buildup (and to save money on water heating costs).
- Malfunctioning thermostat: The thermostat may also not be working. This can make the water too hot and cause too much pressure. In these cases, we may need to replace the thermostat to fix the problem.
- There’s sediment in the tank: Sediment at the bottom of your water heater tank can make the heating elements malfunction. This can make the water hotter and create extra pressure. We generally try flushing the tank of sediment and replacing the anode rod to help stop this issue. If there’s too much sediment, you may need a new water heater.
- High water main pressure: If there’s too much water pressure coming from the main line, this can also increase tank pressure. Anything over 65 psi from the water main to your home is high pressure. If this is the case, we may need to install a pressure reducing valve for your home.
There are many different things that can cause high pressure in your water heater. High pressures in the water heater tank can be dangerous. Therefore, it’s important to call a plumber for Houston water heater repair if your TPR valve engages.
You May Need Houston Water Heater Repair for Worn Inlet or Outlet Connections
However, high pressure isn’t the only reason you might hear whistling from your water heater. Another common reason you might notice this noise is worn inlet or outlet connections. Over time, the connections where cold water comes into the tank and hot water exits the tank can start to get worn. This can allow air to escape and cause that whistling noise you hear. If this is the case, then your Houston plumber can generally just swap out the worn connections for new ones to stop the noise and help prevent any leaks that may be just around the corner.
Your Drain Valve is Loose
Like the inlet and outlet connections, your drain valve may also allow small amounts of air to leak out of the tank and cause whistling noises. While drain valves can loosen over time, generally we notice this issue right after you’ve flushed your water heater. This generally involves simply tightening the drain valve, but sometimes it may need to be replaced if it’s worn. Call us for Houston water heater repair if you need the drain valve on your water heater replaced.
Cracked Water Heater Tank
Also, in some cases a cracked water heater tank may cause a whistling noise. Especially if your water heater is old or hasn’t received regular maintenance, the tank may corrode and lead to a slight crack. These cracks can let air out and create high-pitched whistling noises. If this is the case, you’ll need to act fast, as the crack can quickly turn into a major leak and lots of expensive water damage in your home. In most cases if your tank is cracked, then you’ll need water heater replacement.
Houston Water Heater Repair from Santhoff Plumbing Company
When you’re having issues with your water heater or need water heater maintenance, call our expert team at Santhoff Plumbing Company! We’ve been Houston’s trusted plumber since 1974 and can help you with all your plumbing needs. Our team is here to help you resolve plumbing issues quickly and affordably. Give us a call today at (713) 360-2185!