One of the most common work orders we receive goes something like this:
“There’s a popping noise coming from the attic!”
If you’ve ever heard that sound, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s usually not a major plumbing issue, but rather the water heater letting you know it’s time for some maintenance.
What That Popping Sound Really Means
That popping or rumbling noise isn’t your home settling or something loose in the attic. It’s caused by sediment buildup inside your water heater tank. Over time, minerals from the water supply collect at the bottom of the tank. When the heating element turns on, it has to heat through that layer of sediment, causing bubbles of water to boil and “pop” underneath it.
Think of it like boiling water under a lid that’s just a little too tight. The pressure builds and releases, making that bubbling sound.
AREA Texas Realty & Management handles issues like these quickly and professionally, from responding to the maintenance requests to protecting your investment and keeping tenants happy. Email us at Info@AreaTexas.com to connect with expert property managers in Houston.
The Fix: Flushing the Water Heater
When our team responds to a work order like this, we usually perform a water heater flush. This involves draining the tank to clear out the mineral buildup and restore proper heating efficiency. During the service, we’ll also:
Check the anode rod (which prevents corrosion)
Inspect the tank for leaks or rust
Make sure the temperature and pressure relief valve is working correctly
If the water heater is older (typically 8 to 12 years) we might also recommend replacement, since persistent popping can be an early warning sign that the tank is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Flushing your water heater once a year helps:
Extend its life
Keep your energy bills lower
Maintain quiet, consistent performance
For owners, this is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to protect your investment and avoid emergency calls.
Behind the Scenes
In the video, you can see the Area Texas Realty maintenance team (with one of our trusted partners, Argos Plumbing) in action draining tanks, clearing out sediment, and running final tests to make sure everything’s working properly again. It’s one of those “small” jobs that makes a big impact on both property performance and tenant satisfaction.
We handle hundreds of maintenance requests each month, and something as simple as a water heater flush can make all the difference in preventing future headaches. If you’re a property owner, consider scheduling a preventative maintenance flush before issues arise.
For tenants, if you ever hear that “popping in the attic,” don’t panic. Just submit a maintenance request, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Thinking about putting your Houston home for rent? The rental market can be challenging to navigate. Contact us by emailing Info@AreaTexas.com or call us at 713.972.1222.
