Sediment flushing is definitely doable yourself—I've done it a few times. It's messy, but manageable. Just hook up a hose to the drain valve, run it outside, and open it up. But heads-up: if it's been years since the last flush, you might find the valve clogged or stuck. Happened to me once, and I ended up replacing the valve entirely...not fun.
About those popping noises—my old heater did that too. Turned out it was sediment buildup causing little steam bubbles to pop inside the tank. It wasn't an immediate disaster, but it did mean efficiency was dropping and corrosion was probably underway. Eventually replaced mine because of rust spots appearing around the seams.
Have you checked around the bottom of your tank for any dampness or rust stains yet? That's usually my first clue things are headed south.
"About those popping noises—my old heater did that too."
Had a customer last year with exactly that issue. Flushed it twice, still noisy. Turns out the tank was rusting from the inside out. How old is your heater, anyway... approaching double digits yet?
Mine started making those popping noises a couple years back too. Did the whole flush thing and it quieted down for maybe a month, but then the sounds came right back. Honestly, I figured it was just sediment buildup—never even thought about rust inside. Now I'm wondering if mine's quietly rusting away too... it's gotta be pushing 12 years at this point. Probably time to start budgeting for a replacement, huh?
"it's gotta be pushing 12 years at this point. Probably time to start budgeting for a replacement, huh?"
Yeah, at around 12 years you're definitely in that gray zone. A few things I'd consider:
- Rust inside usually means corrosion is already underway—could lead to leaks or worse, flooding.
- Popping noises are often sediment, but rust flakes can make similar sounds.
- If you're seeing any rusty-colored water, that's a big red flag.
- Honestly, better safe than sorry... I'd start pricing replacements now rather than waiting for an emergency.
"Honestly, better safe than sorry... I'd start pricing replacements now rather than waiting for an emergency."
Yeah, I agree with this. Had a similar issue last year—mine was around 11 years old and started making those popping noises. Thought it was just sediment buildup at first, but then the rusty water showed up. Ended up replacing it before things got worse. It's definitely easier (and cheaper) to handle it proactively rather than dealing with water damage later on...
