What Causes Noisy Pipes?

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Hire a plumber if you are not sure where piping noises originate.

Common Pipe Noises

Noises emanating from water pipes may indicate plumbing problems prior to a pipe break. Find out what the most common pipe noises are and how to address these issues with preventative maintenance before you experience a pipe burst.

Whistling or Hissing

These noises are common when you turn on a faucet or as a toilet tank refills after flushing. Whistling noises indicate that water is flowing through a narrow channel past an obstacle or restriction. Turn on faucets or flush toilets one at a time. When you find the culprit, shut off the water and check for a

• Distorted faucet washer
  
• Loose brass screw that holds the faucet washer in place
  
• Malfunctioning toilet ballcock valve
  
• Faulty toilet overflow
  
  

If you aren't sure how to perform these inspections or repairs, a plumber can help you prevent a pipe break.

Banging or Water Hammer

Banging or chattering noises are caused when the flow of water inside a pipe suddenly stops. This can occur when a faucet is abruptly closed, by a dishwasher or washing machine valve snapping off, or a water pump without a holding tank. Check to see whether visible pipes appear loose or vibrate. Look for missing or loose pipe straps and inspect T-fittings and elbow fittings near joists or studs to see if they are banging against the walls as the pipe vibrates. You may be able to quiet the problem by using

• Anti-hammer devices
  
• Small blocks of wood and pipe straps
  
• Ball- or globe-shaped chambers
  
  

Hire a plumber if you are not sure where piping noises originate or how to stop them. You may also want to have noisy pipes inspected to reduce the chances of an unexpected pipe break. If a pipe burst does occur, you should first contact a plumber to fix broken pipe and then a residential water damage restoration company located in Johnstown, CO.