Debbie Is your water heater making hissing noise and you don’t know what to do? This can be a worrying situation, especially if you are far away from home and were just told about it.
When your water heater starts making a noise, it can mean a lot of things. It can be a sign that the water heater is structurally failing or that there is a clog. But if the water heater is hissing, this is a sign of pressure buildup and it’s not as serious as it might seem.
Keep reading to find out what might be causing the hissing noise from your water heater and how you can get it fixed before it becomes a problem.
Turn Off the Water Heater
It is important to turn off your water heater when hissing is heard. This sound is most likely from the air that has been collected in the tank. If the hissing continues after it is shut off, inspect the relief valve for signs of corrosion or damage. If there is corrosion, the valve will need to be replaced.
Additionally, the tank may have to be flushed, cleaned, or drained to remove the collected air. If there are gurgling sounds, this could be an indication of mineral deposits building up within the water heater.
A professional should be contacted to clean the heater or check for any other potential problems. Following these steps can help you troubleshoot and get your water heater running smoothly again.
Allow the Water Heater to Cool Down
Allowing the water heater to cool down is important because a sudden buildup of pressure inside the water heater can cause it to hiss. To safely allow the water heater to cool down, start by turning off the power or gas supply to the unit, then turn off the water supply.
Make sure there is no steam coming out of the water heater and allow it to cool down for at least an hour. After allowing ample time to cool down, check the thermostat and reset it if necessary, then turn on the supply of power or gas, and turn on the main water supply.
Check for Leaks
When checking for leaks on a hissing water heater, make sure to inspect all the pipes connected to the heater including the:
- cold water line
- the hot water line
- the drain valve
- the pressure relief valve
Pay attention to the areas surrounding the appliance too, like the walls, floor, and ceiling. Make sure these areas are free from any wetness or moisture. If any are found, then the probability of a leak is likely.
If you cannot locate the source of the leak yourself, then it is a good idea to call a plumber for a more thorough Leak Detection. Additionally, look out for water pooling up on the ground beneath the water heater. All these factors can help detect if your water heater hissing and leaking continuously.
Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve
Inspecting the pressure relief valve is one of the most important steps for dealing with a hissing water heater. It is a safety device that helps prevent damage and injury if the water pressure in the tank or plumbing system becomes too high.
Checking the valve periodically is essential to ensure it is in proper working condition. Look for any build-up of sediment or corrosion around the valve or any sign of wear. If any of these are present, clean or replace the valve as soon as possible.
If the water heater is too old, consider replacing the valve entirely to ensure continued safety and efficiency. If all is in good condition, listen to the hissing sound and then secure the valve by gently tightening the thread.
Check the Temperature Setting
The temperature should be set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, as hotter temperatures will increase the life of the tank and decrease energy costs. Additionally, setting the temperature too low will lead to a lack of hot water. The temperature valve is sometimes located on the side of the heater or the wall above the water heater.
Make sure to check the temperature before making any adjustments, as water temperature that is too hot can lead to scalding. Be sure to adjust the temperature very slowly and test the temperature of the water after each adjustment to avoid scalding and to make sure the water heater is working properly.
Examine the T&P Valve Discharge Pipe
Examining the T&P (Temperature and Pressure) valve discharge pipe is an important step in dealing with a hissing water heater. It is the central component in preventing unsafe build-up of pressure in your system. Start by making sure your water heater is powered off and the room is adequately ventilated.
Use a pair of pliers to loosen the valve and inspect the pipe for signs of damage. Pay close attention to any build-up of sediment or calcium inside or around the valve, which indicates an issue with the water supply. In some cases, you may need to replace the T&P valve and its associated piping.
Inspect the Drain Valve
Inspecting the drain valve will ensure the issue is not related to a blockage in the valve. If the drain valve is clogged, the water heater will likely overheat and require a full replacement to fix. There are several signs indicating an issue with the drain valve.
If a strange noise is heard while the water is running, it may be due to a blockage. If strange smells are coming from the drain valve, it could also be related to a clog. If these signs are present, it’s time to hire a professional to investigate and repair the issue.
Dealing With Water Heater Making Hissing Noise
For an effective solution to your water heater making hissing noise, this article provides helpful troubleshooting steps and suggestions. Easy tips, like checking the cold water supply line, and resetting the heater, could save you from dealing with larger issues down the road.
Keeping a healthy hot water heater is a must, so refer to this article if you ever hear a strange noise from your appliance. Rely on this guide for the best advice when it comes to dealing with a hissing water heater.
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