If you have been hearing a popping noise coming from your water heater, you may be wondering what it would take to fix the issue. Sometimes you may be able to do it yourself, though you should consider contacting a professional.
The first step you need to do is turn the knob on your water heater to “Pilot”or “Off.” Next, shut the water off on top of the tank. Turn the knob on the pipe clockwise. Some water heaters have a lever you turn. After you have shut the pipe off give it a couple hours to cool down.
Next you will drain the tank. The popping sound is caused by hard water buildup. How long your water tank has been popping will determine how hard it will be to loosen the valve. Flip the pressure-release valve on top of the tank, and connect a water hose to the bottom of the tank. Turn your drain valve counter clockwise. If the build up is thick, you may have to use a wrench to break the valve loose. After the tank is empty, close the valve, but leave the hose connected.
Detach the pipe fitting at the top of the tank and move it away so you have access to the hole. Pour your de-liming solution, using the suggested amount per gallon of water heated. Replace the pipe using plumbers tape. Once the tank is full, close the pressure valve.
Turn your tank back on, and allow the water to heat. This could take some time depending on how large your tank is. Check the de-liming instructions to see how long the tank should sit. Once this time is completed, turn your tank back off and allow it to cool before draining the water and solution back out. Once the tank is drained, you can turn it back on. It should now be cleaned and rid of the popping sound you were hearing.
Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning offers over 30 years of experience. Feel free to contact when you have questions concerning your heating and air conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about water heaters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area