Tankless water heaters are common in many Sherman Oaks homes thanks to their energy efficiency and steady hot water supply. But when that normally quiet system starts making unexpected noises, it can interrupt your routine. A humming, banging, or rattling water heater is more than just distracting—it can be a sign that something is going wrong inside the unit.
These sounds usually don’t mean your system is beyond repair, but they shouldn’t be ignored either. Noises can point to small issues that, if left untreated, can grow into serious problems. Knowing what these sounds mean and where they might be coming from can help you stay ahead of major repairs and keep your tankless water heater working like it should.
Common Causes of Unusual Noises in Tankless Water Heaters
Every mechanical system makes some sound during operation, but persistent or loud noises coming from your water heater often indicate a deeper problem. If you’re noticing strange sounds in your Sherman Oaks home, the following issues could be the reason:
1. Mineral Buildup
Many homes in Sherman Oaks deal with hard water. As this water runs through your tankless heater, minerals like magnesium and calcium collect inside the system. Over time, those minerals harden into scale and build up on the heating elements or inside the pipes. This buildup can result in popping, crackling, or gurgling noises, especially when the system first heats up.
2. Air in the System
Small amounts of air in the pipes are usually harmless. But during maintenance, new installations, or due to leaks in the valves or joints, air can get trapped in the system. This air can move through the unit and create vibrating or clicking sounds. If this is left unaddressed, it can disrupt water flow and cause other performance problems.
3. Water Pressure Issues
If the pressure of the water coming into or moving through your system fluctuates a lot, it could be stressing out the components inside your tankless heater. This stress creates odd noises like whining or rattling. Long-term water pressure inconsistencies can eventually cause wear or even damage to key parts of the unit.
Being familiar with these causes can help you respond sooner and avoid larger problems that could lead to costly repairs or system failure.
Potential Problems Associated with Ignoring These Noises
Strange noises won’t go away on their own. Waiting too long to address the sounds you hear can turn a minor problem into something much more serious.
Here’s what can happen if the issue goes unresolved:
– Increased Wear and Tear
When the internal parts of your tankless water heater experience ongoing stress—from scale buildup, pressure issues, or blockages—they start to wear down faster. That means your system has to work harder to deliver hot water, which leads to more mechanical strain and shortens overall unit lifespan.
– Reduced Efficiency
A struggling water heater uses more energy to do the same job. Buildup around important components like the heat exchanger causes the system to run longer and harder. Homeowners may notice they’re using more energy and still not getting consistent hot water when they want it.
– Potential for System Failure
Small issues become big ones over time. A clogged valve or restricted water pipe can put extra pressure on other parts of the unit. This chain reaction can eventually cause full system breakdown. At that point, what started as a noise issue could require complete replacement—a much more expensive and time-consuming fix.
It’s far easier and more cost-effective to catch these problems early by paying attention to the clues your system is giving you.
Steps to Diagnose the Source of the Noise
Before assuming the worst, take a few minutes to gather helpful information about what you’re hearing. For homeowners in Sherman Oaks, this early assessment allows for a faster and more accurate solution once our professionals arrive.
Start by listening to the sound.
– What kind of sound is it? A sharp pop, a low hum, a high-pitched whistle?
– When does it happen? Right when you turn on the hot water? After several minutes of use? At random times?
– How often does it happen? Every time the system activates or only once in a while?
Next, visually inspect the system. You may not understand the internal workings of your tankless water heater, but it’s easy to observe the outside. Look for:
– Water leaks
– Loose or corroded fittings
– Error codes on the control panel
– Discoloration, rust, or burned areas near wires or venting components
You can also check your unit’s owner manual for guidance. Many manufacturers include codes, charts, or sound descriptions to help identify problems. If needed, record a short video or audio clip of the sound—something you can show to our technicians at your next appointment. These small steps can help shave time off diagnostics and shorten the path to repair.
When to Contact Our Professionals for Help
Some noise is normal during operation, but continued or loud sounds aren’t. If the noise grows, becomes more frequent, or is paired with other warning signs like no hot water, it’s time to bring in our team.
Contact our professionals right away if you notice:
– Loud banging, knocking, or metallic clanging coming from the unit
– The smell of gas or scorching around the heater
– The system constantly turning on and off (known as short cycling)
– Lack of hot water at the taps or inconsistent heat output
– Visible rust, mineral buildup, or leaks at any connections
Our professionals are trained to identify problems that extend beyond visible wear. Whether it’s an air blockage, pressure control issue, or an electrical problem inside the controls, our technicians can safely and accurately locate the problem. In many cases, fixing the sound issue restores overall efficiency, improves water consistency, and extends the unit’s life.
Keeping Your Sherman Oaks Home Comfortable with Proper Water Heater Maintenance
After your tankless water heater has been repaired or serviced, staying proactive about maintenance is key. Simple issues become much less likely with regular inspections and timely system flushes. Keeping your water heater quiet also means keeping it efficient, safe, and reliable.
Homeowners in Sherman Oaks can benefit from regular service that includes:
– Flushing the system to remove mineral buildup
– Testing water pressure and adjusting it if needed
– Checking valves and sensors for signs of early wear
– Replacing filters and vents where necessary
– Inspecting for corrosion or small leaks before they cause serious problems
For example, a Sherman Oaks homeowner had been hearing tapping noises for months and ignored them until the hot water began cutting out. After an inspection, we found severe scale buildup that clogged the flow sensor. A full flush and a few part replacements returned the system to normal—no noise, steady hot water. That homeowner now books preventive maintenance every year, avoiding future issues before they begin.
Strange sounds from your tankless water heater often provide early warnings of internal stress or blockages. Paying attention to the noise, gathering clues, and calling for help when needed will keep your water heater serving your home’s needs without interruption. Regular maintenance, especially in areas with hard water like Sherman Oaks, helps reduce unexpected noises while improving system performance.
Keep your hot water system running smoothly by addressing unusual noises early. Trust Just One Call, Inc. to help ensure your tankless water heaters in Sherman Oaks remain efficient and secure. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.