• My hot water heater is making a knocking sound

    Jan.23.2009

    My water heater makes a "knocking" sound after using hot water for a while.  I tried flushing it, but very little sediment came out.  How can I be sure that I flushed the heater properly, and if the sediment wasn't the cause of the knocking, what else could it be?

    Kenneth, Conroe, TX

    All water heater manufacturers recommend periodically flushing sediment from your hot water heater as part of routine maintenance. If left unmaintained, sediment buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water heater or even cause your water lines to clog. It is very difficult to flush all the sediment out of a hot water heater. When you flush the tank, you need to drain it first before forcing water through and then refilling.  Also, changing the anode rod will help clear the tank of solid particles. In terms of the sound you described, as the water changes temperature air collects around the solid particles and pops like "bubble wrap". I’m not sure how old your tank is or what the water supply is like in your town, but it may be time to replace it. I would recommend having a professional plumbing company, like ARS/Rescue Rooter, inspect your water heater to give you an accurate diagnosis.

Comments

POST A COMMENT