Richmond water heater vibrates or bangs when the burner ignites or shuts off (water hammer).

Safety first: Secure ladders and work carefully around piping. Sudden pipe movement can cause damage.

• Secure piping: Add or tighten pipe straps and supports near the water heater to reduce movement.
• Install water hammer arrestors: At problem fixtures (e.g., washing machine, dishwasher), install hammer arrestors to absorb shock.
• Check water pressure: Measure house water pressure and install or adjust a pressure-reducing valve if pressure is above 80 psi.
• Slow-closing valves: Replace extremely fast-closing solenoid valves with models designed to reduce hammer if necessary.