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What To Do When Your Water Heater Is Making Noises?

by Posted in Kitchen Improvement

You may notice your water heater making strange noises. This is a problem because you don’t know what’s causing the sounds or danger to you or your home. 

Not all of these sounds mean something wrong with your water heater, but it’s always good to understand the reasons behind them and learn how to fix them. Here are water heater noises to look out for and how to diagnose them:

Sizzling, Hissing, and Crackling

These are typical noises coming from an electric water heater. They are attributed to sediment build up and mineral deposits at the bottom of your water heater. There is nothing to fix this yourself, but it’s not a cause for concern either. Plumbers will sometimes use chemical agents to get rid of the sediment buildup and prevent such sounds from occurring in the future.


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Irritating noises are not the only symptom of this problem. Expect your heating bills to go up as the water heater struggles to heat the same amount of water with a greatly reduced ability to produce heat from the lower heating element.

A gas powered water heater can also make sizzling sounds, even though the problem isn’t the same. Sizzling noise in a gas water heater is caused by internal condensation, which makes a sizzling sound when dripping down into the burner. If you notice condensation in the tank, there could be a leak, so call a plumbing professional to deal with it.

A crackling sound may also mean that there’s condensation in the water heater burner. A water heater won’t create condensation if the temperature remains consistent, but condensation can form when the tank is full. Make sure the plumber checks the crackling sounds immediately. Also, use a wire brush for clean up and if the sediment blocks the drain valve, it might be impossible to remove the water in the storage tank, so buy a new water heater.

Tankless Water Heater Noise Problems

Apart from regular heaters, other heater models can make annoying noises. For example, an electric tankless water heater has its sound. You should know the normal sounds if you know how a tankless water heater works. A tankless gas water heater can also have the same issue. If you hear a clicking sound from the water heater, it means that the flow switches come on and off. 

Tankless Water Heater Noise Problems
Image credit: https://soundproofcentral.com/

And if you hear more noise, check for debris from the hard water area or if there’s build-up within the unit. You can fix this problem by practicing regular maintenance to help you keep on top of any unusual sound.

Popping Sound

Some sounds that you hear may seem irregular or irritating, but these are normal for this type of heater. The first sound you will probably notice is the popping sound. Popping noises occur when the temperature inside the unit rises to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). 

Popping Sound
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However, this doesn’t indicate a dangerous problem. Popping noise is also caused by limescale and sediment build-up within the tank. The sound is created when steam bubbles form under the sediment, then burst as the water heats up. You can quickly diagnose this problem by using a descaling product to help break down the limescale and minerals.

Ensure you flush and drain the tank to remove any sediment. Popping noises can also be caused if an aluminum anode rod within the tank is exposed to high levels of alkalinity. Professional plumbing can solve this problem by replacing the aluminum anode rod with a magnesium anode rod.

Loose Water Heater Element can Cause a Humming Sound

Some water heaters make humming noises. For example, electric water heaters don’t have gas burners. Instead, they have at least one electrically powered heating element associated with a thermostat. If the water falls below the set temperature, the electricity heats up the element, and the water flowing around it heats up. 

The heated water then circulates, warming the rest of the water. When the electric heater makes a humming noise, the heating element is loose due to wear and tear or poor installation. 

The loose element acts as a tuning fork, vibrating from the push of water cycling around it, creating a humming noise. You can easily correct these humming sounds by making the heating element tighter.

Screeching Sounds can Signal Restricted Water Flow

A screeching noise may indicate the water is too hot. As the heated water comes out of the tank, it can bump into air bubbles in the piping, which creates the sound of metal on metal screeching or scratching.

 Screeching noises also show that water flow is restricted either at the valve letting water into the heater or at a valve connected to water in your home. When the relief valve isn’t open all the way, water moves through a narrow space at a higher pressure, creating a high-pitched sound. 

The inlet control valve is often to blame for this, and you can easily address it by turning the valve to fully open it to lower the water pressure. And if adjusting the inlet valve doesn’t stop the noise, you may need to replace them.

Ticking Noises

If you can also hear a soft ticking noise, this indicates changes in water pressure. The heat trap can sometimes be the reason for ticking noises. You can easily remedy this problem as long as the changes in water pressure aren’t dramatic and frequent, like rapidly opening and closing the main building control valve.

 These tapping sounds are normal, but if tapping sound from a valve is concerning, swap the heat straps with dielectric nipples, smaller fittings that perform the same function. Boosting heat strap nipples can also improve the functionality of the water heater.

Make sure to tighten and replace the pipes if they become loose. This will stop the ticking sound and prevent the pipes from shifting. Lowering the heat by a few degrees may also reduce the expansion of water lines and stop any ticking sounds.

Hammering and Knocking Noises

A hammering noise, also known as water hammering, occurs when pipes aren’t securely anchored. They move and hit against each other and the interior of the wall. Any abrupt change in the water flow can lead to the sound because the pipes move as water does. 

Hammering and Knocking Noises
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This can happen when you flush the toilet, run a dishwasher, or a pump with a holding tank is running. Water hammering is not an immediate problem, but it can cause damage to pipes and the surroundings over time. You can diagnose this problem by securing pipes with insulation or installing a water hammer arrestor to stop the knocking.

Rumbling Sound

A few things can cause rumbling pipes. Sediment build-up and mineral deposits are common reasons. Sediment build-up occurs when minerals are suspended in the water flow and accumulate over time. This sediment can also cause damage to the inside of your pipes, but it usually creates a rumbling sound when you turn on hot water faucets. 

You can flush and drain that hot water tank with a long hose to remove the sediment or use a descaling solution to break down limescale within the tank. You should take your time to learn how to drain a water heater before doing anything. And if you aren’t experienced with plumbing, have a professional plumber flush the tank once a year.

FAQs about What to Do When Your Water is Making Noises

Is it bad if your water heater is making noise?

The noise might be annoying, but it doesn’t mean that your heater is malfunctioning.

Can a water heater explode?

If there’s steam build up in the heater and there’s no outlet, the increased pressure could cause the hot water tank to explode.

Final Thought about What to Do When Your Water Heater is Making Noises

As you can see, a water heater noise shouldn’t bother you that much. But if you suspect a fault, don’t hesitate to contact a water repair to rectify the situation before it worsens.

 

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The Best Carpet for Basement

by Posted in Kitchen Renovation

Carpet is the most popular choice among homeowners who want to make their basement space more appealing by adding a soft touch to it. If you’re just learning how to buy a carpet that will be best for your basement, there are a lot of options out there.

It is very important that you choose the right one so that it will be comfortable and safe for your family. Basements are hotspots for mold, mildew, and other unpleasantness due to increased exposure to moisture.

This guide will help you to find out the best-suited carpet depending on your needs and budget. Read on!

Synthetic Carpet for Basements

Basement flooring made of synthetic material is highly recommended for basements because it’s moisture resistant unlike natural materials like cotton or wool. It also has a stain protection feature, so it makes cleaning easy.

Synthetic carpet is good for the basement because the materials tend to retain less moisture than natural fibers. They’re also more stain-resistant than natural carpets.

Nylon Basement Carpet

If you’re looking for the best carpet for the basement, look no further than nylon carpet. It’s durable and able to withstand moisture. Unlike other synthetic carpets that are made of polypropylene or acrylic, nylon is made from natural materials that feel soft when touched.


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Pros of Nylon Carpet

Great stain resistanceEasy to maintainMore durable

Cons of Nylon Carpet

It’s expensiveIt’s not soft like other materialsGenerates a lot of static electricity

Polyester Carpet

There are several types of polyester carpets like Berber and loop, but other than that these materials are really the same. Polyester is the ideal choice for basements, especially if you’re looking for an all-around, versatile carpet. This synthetic material is resistant to spills, accidents, and moisture.

Polyester Carpet
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Pros of Polyester Carpet

Less expensive than other carpet optionsIt’s a green carpeting material made of recycled bottle caps and tiresEasy to cleanIt’s durable and reliable

Cons

Not the best option in high traffic areasNeeds more tender care and love than other carpets

Olefin Synthetic Fiber

Choosing the right carpet for basements will ensure that they are protected from excess moisture. Olefin fiber is recommended for the basement to protect their carpeting. Olefin is a polypropylene material that’s made from plastic pellets and recycled materials.

Olefin Synthetic Fiber
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It looks and feels like wool and is waterproof, mold, and stain-resistant. It’s known within the carpeting industry as a material that is tough, reliable, and comfortable to boot. Its woven nature helps prevent clumping and debris from becoming too ingrained into your flooring.

Pros of Olefin

Can be used both indoors and outdoors

Cons

It’s not resilient as other carpetsWears quickly in high traffic areasThe wool-like carpet fibers catch and tear easily on furniture when moved around the room

Triexta Carpeting

Triexta carpet fiber is made from three natural fibers: wool, nylon, and polyester. The soft blend gives it a distinct look and feels that will stay plush for many years to come.

Triexta Carpeting
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Cons of Triexta Carpeting

The fibers electrostatically attract dirt, making it hard to vacuum

Berber Carpet for Basements

Berber carpet, also known as loop pile, is easy to install, affordable and durable compared to other styles. Examples include nylon and olefin. Nylon is the most popular choice for Berber carpets because it’s known to resist stains and holds up under heavy foot traffic.

On the other hand, olefin tends to soil and stain more easily than nylon, making it a great choice for low-traffic places.

Low Pile Basement Carpet

Low pile carpet is a good choice for basement areas because the cut pile fibers keep dirt and moisture from becoming trapped in the pile. Low Pile carpeting makes basements look less like home entertainment rooms and more like cozy family spaces.

It gives you plenty of softness to sink into, but not too much for you and your guests to trip on. The style is soft and low maintenance, making it the perfect choice for most homes. If you opt for a low pile, go for a low pile style like a plush carpet.

Low pile carpets dry out quickly than high pile carpets when they become damp and wet. If your home is frequented by pets, kids, and heavy foot traffic, then a low pile carpet is the right choice. Look for a synthetic carpet with short fibers that are level and dense like thick grass when mowed.

Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are an exciting trend in carpets. Carpet tile can be installed on any type of flooring, but it is especially ideal for concrete subfloors. It comes in a range of shapes and sizes, including squares. The squares are easy to install since they do not need seam allowances.

Carpet Tiles
Image credit: https://www.flooringinc.com/

Installing carpet tile is very easy since you only need to peel and stick the tiles on your concrete subfloor. Since these tiles are made of vinyl and rubber, they can easily be cut into fairly small pieces for use as borders or other decorative floors indoors and outdoors.

They’re perfect for the basement because it is easy to clean these carpets without needing any professional help after a spill. Although carpet tiles are easy to lay, homeowners may need help with the big stuff. Bigger jobs can be handled by professionals who will install these tiles for you.

Sectioned Carpet

This is another low risk option for moisture-prone basements. Whether you’ve divided your basement into multiple rooms and renovated into an open living area, you’ll only use a carpet in only a portion of the space. And if you have water damage, you won’t replace the entire basement floor.

What to Look for in a Quality Basement Carpet

Many homeowners prefer carpet over other flooring options such as vinyl, engineered hardwood and laminate because of many reasons. These include the qualities of a carpet such as soft to walk on, insulation and it’s a forgiving material that works well on subfloor that is in less than good condition.

Factors to consider when choosing a carpet include:

The Pile of a Carpet

Low pile carpets are the best bet when it comes to basement carpeting. This is because the low pile carpet dries quickly compared to the high pile and that’s what the basement floor needs. Less time to dry compared to living room and bedroom which needs high pile carpets. Most homeowners opt for Berber carpet which has a closed loop, giving it a flat, textured appearance.

Carpet Padding

One way of controlling moisture from your concrete floors is to install an impermeable rubber pad. However, some carpet experts are against this idea and are recommending pad-less carpet that allows the basement floor to breathe. You should consider such factors for when you go for free carpet installation

Nonetheless, carpet padding is important because it provides extra insulation, protects the carpeting from dampness and provides cushioning which you’ll need when you have a concrete subfloor. Go for the best breathable carpet pads that are made of open-cell synthetic foam or from synthetic fibers to increase the longevity of your basement’s carpet.

Waterproof Carpets for Basement

If your basement is vulnerable to flooding and water damage, you’ll have a material that can handle such a situation. Some of the waterproof materials that you need to go for include synthetic carpet. Opt for the less expensive ones like olefin carpeting and polyester.

Durability and Comfort

Comfort and durability are the two features that people look for in basement carpeting. There are some materials today, such as 100-percent nylon, which is more resistant to dust and mites than other materials. Nylon is also great for homes with small children because it doesn’t stain easily.

If your basement is for relaxing and watching TV, go for comfort instead of wearability, in which the best flooring options would be olefin and triexta.

Sectioned Carpeting vs. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

You want your basement to look bigger, so it’s a better idea to have divided carpeted flooring. In this way you can create different rooms in the basement for specific purposes. Wall to wall carpeting is not the best idea in the basement because if any part of it sustains water damage, you’ll need to replace the entire carpet.

The Type of Material

Synthetic carpets are the best bet for basements. They’re easy to maintain and they offer a long life if you take proper care of them. Basement carpeting should be moisture resistant and stain resistant at the same time. So, for this purpose, synthetic carpets do better than woolen carpets.

Pros and Cons of Basement Carpet

Pros

Better insulation from the cold concrete than vinyl, laminate and epoxy flooringDIY-friendly installation, especially if you choose carpet tilesCarpet has a breathability factor greater than other types and even light moisture can be mitigated by dehumidifiers.Large water leaks can be dried out quickly before mold and mildew develop

Cons

Prone to mold in damp conditionsWorst option in the event of flooding

FAQs about the Best Carpet for the Basement

What is the best carpet padding for concrete?

Frothed foam padding is a great choice to use in concrete floors because it responds well in heavy-traffic areas. It’s densely packed and will adhere well to the concrete floor and carpet backing.

Final Thought about the Best Carpet for the Basement

As you can see, choosing the best carpet for your basement isn’t going for a carpet that looks pretty in your local store. It requires a different approach. Consider what you’ll be using the basement for, and pick a carpet based on your intended use.

 

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How to Identify Dangerous Asbestos Installation

by Posted in Kitchen Improvement

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral mined and used in building materials for more than 100 years. It was widely used because of its heat resistance, water repellent nature, and affordability. Chances are that you are also considering using it for building your own house. However, it has been discovered that asbestos can cause serious health risks.

The most common disease caused by asbestos fibers is lung cancer called Mesothelioma, which affects the lungs or abdomen lining. Although there are many countries where it is banned from use completely, you may find some buildings with this material installed even today.

That’s why we have compiled an exclusive guide on identifying dangerous asbestos installations so that you remain safe at all times if your house happens to be built with these harmful chemicals. Let’s get started!

Why Asbestos Insulation is Dangerous

Yes, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious respiratory illness and cancer called Mesothelioma. When disturbed, tiny abrasive asbestos fibers can be inhaled. In homes built before 1975, asbestos is most commonly found as thermal insulation on basement boilers and pipes.

When is Asbestos in a Home Dangerous?

The material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers, but when disturbed, it may create a health hazard where none existed before. Asbestos becomes dangerous if it has been damaged over time. The ones that crumble easily if handled can release asbestos fibers and create a health hazard.

Types of Asbestos Insulation

Loose Fill Insulation

Loose fill insulation is made of asbestos. The particles may be very small and do not feel gritty to the touch. This type of insulation was found in older homes before the 1980s. Loose-fill insulation comes in various materials and is easy to identify, thanks to its loose, lumpy form and fluffy or granular texture.

It doesn’t have paper or other types of backing like batt, and blanket insulation does. After determining if your attic insulation or the wall has loose insulation, you also need to determine which type of material it is because some types may contain asbestos.

Vermiculite Insulation

This type of loose-fill material was often used in attics and walls of older homes before the 1980s. When you contact a professional for an asbestos inspection, they’ll check for this type of insulation by looking at your home’s construction records or telling you what got installed in your home when it was built.


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Vermiculite loose-fill insulation is one of the most common household materials that contain asbestos. It has a pebble-like appearance and typically is a grayish-brown and silvery-gold color. It’s made from a natural mineral material that can release tiny fibers when processed and handled.

In the United States, most vermiculite insulation containing asbestos was sourced from a mine near Libby, Montana which was active until 1990. And because the LIbby mine closed in 1990, houses built before that date might have asbestos containing insulation.

Cellulose Insulation

If you have a loose-fill insulation that is gray, soft, and without a shine, then it’s cellulose insulation. Cellulose insulation contains a high percentage of recycled paper and doesn’t contain minerals. It looks like shredded gray paper. It’s a perfectly safe type of insulation that is commonly blown into attics. It also comes in batt and blanket forms.

Cellulose Insulation
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Loose-Fill Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass fill is a popular choice for homes. It’s also one of the safest types of insulation to get installed in your home. The main problem with fiberglass insulation is that it can irritate skin and cause respiratory problems if it isn’t installed correctly or if there are loose fibers from the previous installation that have been left at the site of the installation.

Loose-Fill Fiberglass Insulation
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And because it’s a glass product, fiberglass has a slight shine when subjected to bright light. It’s very soft, almost like cotton candy, and is composed of very fine fibers.

Rock Wool Insulation

Also known as mineral wool, rock wool is another popular insulation product. It also comes in two different forms, either as loose fill or batts. The materials are similar to fiberglass, except that rock wool fibers are much larger and therefore more difficult for the body to breathe into it. It has a fibrous, soft, cottony texture.

Rock wool is usually gray, white, off-white, and brownish white. It’s a manufactured product made by melting basaltic rock. The raw materials get exposed to temperatures up to 2750 degrees Fahrenheit, making them melt, then fibers are spun from the molten material.

Blanket Insulation

Blanket insulation is manufactured from rock, slag, or cinders. It’s lightweight and fibrous. It’s either in the form of batts or large rolls and looks like a big, cotton-like blanket. It’s flexible and is often used on attics and walls.

Inhalation of rock wool or blanket insulation material may result in a variety of health problems, including lung disease, cancer, and asbestosis. Therefore, it is important to install these materials using proper protective gear and methods.

Block Insulation

These are rigid panels manufactured from the same material that is used to make concrete. It can be found in either pre-formed or bagged blocks and comes in a variety of thicknesses. The most common type of block insulation is cement fiber. It’s lightweight, easy to cut, and looks like a grayish-white sponge.

It is not amenable to cutting with a rotary saw, so it has to be ground down before it can be installed into the wall cavities or floor of your home.

How to Identify Asbestos Insulation

According to research, there’s no safe level for asbestos exposure. Therefore, if you discover insulation in your home that may contain toxic material, don’t remove or inspect it yourself. If you suspect the area is contaminated with asbestos, call a professional. If you find asbestos in your ceiling, floor tiles, and anywhere else in your home, get the sample tested by a professional lab.

Call for an Inspection First

Before you call an asbestos abatement contractor, you should contact an industrial hygiene firm to inspect the affected area. A proper assessment should include a complete visual examination and careful collection and analysis of samples.

If there’s asbestos, the inspector should provide a written evaluation describing its location and extent of damage and provide recommendations for correction and prevention.

Contact an Asbestos Abatement Contractor

Before the work begins, get a written contract specifying the work plan, procedures, and time frames. The agreement should also specify what happens if the work is delayed, who will pay for future inspections.

And whether you will be charged for other services such as cleanup, applicable federal and local regulations, which the contractor must follow. You can contact your state, local agency responsible for asbestos regulations, Environmental Protection Agency, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s regional office.

Removal of Asbestos

If you decide to remove the asbestos or asbestos repair, ensure that the contractor gets written assurance that you are getting exactly what is on the label. There should be a label specifying the type of asbestos, where it’s located, and how much has been removed.

Repairing Asbestos

Sealing 

Sealing treats the material with a sealant that binds the asbestos fibers and coats the material, so fibers are not released. You can repair a pipe, furnace, and boiler insulation this way. 

Covering

Covering involves placing a protective wrap and jacket around the material to prevent burning and wear. Covering is used for asbestos-cement pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and other materials that aren’t damaged if left in place. Only a professional trained to handle asbestos safely should undertake these repairs.

FAQs about How to Identify Dangerous Asbestos Installation

How do you test for the presence of asbestos?

Use asbestos testing kits which work in a two-step process. After purchasing a low-cost kit at a home improvement center, you obtain suspected asbestos from an area of your home. After that, mail your findings to the laboratory, and the results will be sent to you after a few days.

Final Thought on How to Identify Dangerous Asbestos Installation

As you can see, dealing with asbestos requires the use of a special kit. Asbestos testing kits are available through home improvement centers and other outlets, or you can contact an asbestos abatement professional. If handled correctly, you can prevent asbestos from causing a problem in your home.

 

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