Pipe Problems: Identifying 5 Common Causes of Noisy Plumbing

As a homeowner, dealing with noisy plumbing can be frustrating and stressful. The constant banging, clanking, and whistling can disrupt your peace and keep you awake at night.

While some plumbing noises are harmless, others can indicate serious issues requiring a licensed plumber’s attention. In this article, we’ll walk you through five common causes of noisy plumbing and what you can do to fix them.

1. Water Hammer

Water hammer is a common cause of loud, banging noises in your pipes. It occurs when the water flow is suddenly stopped or redirected, causing a shock wave that travels through your plumbing system. This can happen when you turn off a faucet or flush a toilet. The pressure from the shockwave can damage your pipes and cause leaks if left untreated.

You can install water hammer arrestors in your plumbing system to fix a water hammer. These devices absorb the shockwave and prevent it from traveling through your pipes. A licensed plumber can install these devices for you.

2. Loose Pipes

You may have loose pipes if you hear rattling or clanking noises when you turn on your taps. Over time, pipes can become loose due to vibrations from nearby appliances or changes in water pressure. Loose pipes can cause damage to your plumbing system and lead to leaks if left untreated.

You can secure loose pipes with pipe straps or cushioning to fix them. A licensed plumber can advise you on the best solution for your plumbing system.

3. Water Pressure Issues

High water pressure can cause a variety of plumbing noises, including whistling and banging. If your water pressure is excessive, it can damage your pipes and appliances and even cause your water heater to fail prematurely.

You can install a pressure-reducing valve to fix water pressure issues in your plumbing system. This device will regulate the water pressure and prevent damage to your pipes and appliances. A licensed plumber can install this device for you.

4. Clogged Pipes

You may have clogged pipes if you hear gurgling noises when you flush your toilet or run your taps. This can be caused by debris buildup in your pipes, such as hair, grease, or food. Clogged pipes can prevent water from flowing freely and cause damage to your plumbing system.

To fix clogged pipes, use a plunger or a plumbing snake to remove the blockage. If the clog is too, you may need to call a licensed plumber to clear the pipes.

5. Faulty Valves

These noises can be incredibly frustrating, from hissing and whistling to squeaking and rattling. In many cases, the culprit behind these sounds is faulty valves.

Valves are an essential component of your plumbing system. They control water flow through your pipes, allowing you to turn the water on and off as needed. When these valves are functioning properly, you should be able to use your taps without issues. However, if the valves are damaged or worn out, they can cause a variety of plumbing noises.

The best way to fix faulty valves is to replace them with new ones. A licensed plumber can help you pick the appropriate valves for your plumbing system and install them for you.

Conclusion

Noisy plumbing can be a nuisance, but it can also indicate serious issues requiring a licensed plumber’s attention. If you’re experiencing plumbing noises, it’s crucial to identify the cause and address it immediately. By fixing these common causes of noisy plumbing, you can ensure that your plumbing system works properly and prevent damage to your home.

Don’t let noisy plumbing disrupt your daily life or cause damage to your home. Contact Bromac today and schedule an appointment with one of our licensed plumbers. We’ll identify the cause of your plumbing noises and provide you with the solutions you need to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.