Loud vibrating sound when running hot taps

[SandwichMan]

Hi there, I have an electric water heater and whenever I run any of the hot taps or the shower for just a few minutes I get a constant vibrating sound. The sound will continue until I turn off the tap/shower, then it will get much louder for about a minute and then it finally quiets down.

I also had an issue when turning on any of the cold taps, hot water would come out out of the cold taps for about 30 seconds before becoming cold.

I turned down the thermostat to 60 C, which had mostly resolved the cold water tap issue so now it's slightly warm for a few seconds then it's fine.

However, since turning down the thermostat the vibration issue is actually worse, now it starts vibrating sooner and carries on longer after turning it off.

I noticed when taking a colder shower and not having the heat turned up too much seems to help, so I'm thinking some kind of pressure issue with the boiler. I took some pictures just in case it offers any clues.

I've tried to contact a plumber who I've used before but haven't been able to get a response yet. So I'm hoping for some advice.

The boiler has never been serviced since we moved in 6 years ago so that might have something to do with it!

Appreciate any advice or if someone knows a good plumber in the Berkshire area then please let me know.

Many thanks,

 

[blup]

Sound waves from changes in pressure can cause the pipe walls to flex which is the sound you hear. Normally cooler water slows the waves but in your case it gets worse, so have a look at how the pipes are fixed to the wall.

 

[blup]

If it’s not that look at reducing the pressure where the water enters the heater

 

[SandwichMan]

If it’s not that look at reducing the pressure where the water enters the heater

Thank you for the suggestions. I'm still reaching out to plumbers in the local area to try and get some help. Lowering the pressure sounds like a good test although I'm worried about messing with the valve myself.