Raise your hand if this sounds familiar: you get up to take your morning shower, turn the water on, and hear a loud screeching noise coming from your hot water heater. This is not an uncommon scenario, and in most cases, not a major cause for concern. However, in some instances, that screaming sound could indicate you’ve got a big problem on your hands.
In part one of our blog series on water heater noises, we’re going to look at what a screeching water heater may or may not mean, and what you can do about it. Read on for what you need to know, and remember that you can always trust our experienced water heater plumbers at Service Today!
Why Is My Water Heater Making a Screeching Noise?
In a single word, the reason that a water heater emits a screeching noise is pressure. All water heaters come equipped with a key component called a pressure relief valve. When the pressure in your water heater exceeds a certain level, the pressure relief opens, allowing hot water to pass through your system and letting out the pressure in your heater’s tank. You may notice some water at the base of your tank when the valve is working correctly, but other than that, you should not have to worry about this component. When the pressure relief valve is not working correctly, however, pressure will build in the tank, creating that high-pitched scream we’re talking about. Think about it like a boiling tea kettle: if you leave it on the stove without releasing the steam from the spout, it will eventually start to whistle. Again, the occasional screech from your water heater is actually not a problem. What should make you concerned is when you hear consistent high-pitched screeching noises being emitted from your water heater on a weekly or even daily basis. If this is happening, chances are there’s a problem with your unit’s pressure relief valve, meaning you will have to call a professional. Failure to deal with a build-up of pressure in your water heater could cause it to leak, crack, or even explode, so do to hesitate to contact an experienced water heater expert ASAP.Service Today! Is Here for Your Water Heater Needs
Service Today! is proud to offer a full range of water heater services, including repairs, installations, and maintenance. Our plumbing technicians are capable of handling the latest, most energy-efficient models of equipment, including tankless water heaters, and we are available 24/7/365 for your emergency service needs. Check back in a month for our next water heater blog, and remember, from screeching and beyond, we know how to handle all your water heater problems.Call (888) 998-2032for available specials and financing options or click here to request service online.
