GE
Sediment Boiling / Scale Buildup
GE water heater makes popping or rumbling noises during heating.
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Possible Causes
Heavy mineral deposits on bottom of tank, scale on heating elements, high hardness water with no maintenance flushing
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn off power or gas and allow water to cool before flushing.
Steps to reduce popping noises:
- Flush the tank: Turn off cold supply, connect a garden hose to the drain valve, open a hot faucet, and open the drain valve to flush sediment until water runs clear.
- Repeat if needed: Close drain, open cold supply to stir sediment, then drain again.
- Inspect elements (electric): Remove and inspect heating elements for heavy scale. Replace with GE-compatible elements if badly coated.
- Consider water treatment: In hard water areas, consider a softener or schedule regular flushing (every 6–12 months).
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Repair Difficulty
Easy
2/5
Required Part
Heating Elements
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