Common Plumbing Noises & How to Prevent Them

You turn on your faucet and hear a gurgling sound. Every now and then you’ll hear a noise coming from your plumbing. Most of the time there is a perfectly logical explanation for these sounds and no need for concern. However, if the noise continues or gets louder, it could be a sign of a plumbing problem.

Loose straps, high water pressure, a water hammer, even copper pipes can cause plumbing to bump and squeal. Not only do they keep you up at night but they could be a sign of a bigger problem in your plumbing.

Whistling Sound

One of the most common plumbing noises is a whistling sound when a faucet or water valve is turned on, or when a toilet tank refills after it is flushed. A whistling sound results, when the water is flowing too fast in the pipe.

This happens when the washer inside the faucet has been distorted or when the brass screw that holds the washer in place is loose. Hard water can also cause water pressure to build up when the shower head becomes clogged with minerals found in hard water. Remove the shower head soak it in white vinegar to remove those deposits.

Copper Pipes

If you have copper pipes, you may hear a banging noise coming from your plumbing. Copper pipes will expand when hot water passes through them. As a result, they will bang and rub against walls. If you are planning to remodel, you can resolve the issue then. But the simpler solution is to lower the water temperature on your hot water heater.

Water Hammer

Water hammers occur when the flow of water running through a pipe has to suddenly stop when you shut off the faucet. This will result in a loud banging noise. The pressure of the water hitting a closed exit can cause wear and tear on the plumbing joints.

Loose Mounting Straps

A loose strap on a pipe will cause it to shake and bump against walls, or to vibrate against a wall or stud when the water shuts on and off. Take a look at all your exposed pipes to see which mounting strap is loose and make sure they are connected tightly.

High Water Pressure

High water pressure can also cause your pipes to bang. Regulate the water pressure in your home by adjusting the regulator attached to the water supply line where it enters the house. If there is no regulator or pressure valve attached, have one installed by a professional plumber. This can lower your monthly water bills and reduce wear and tear on your appliances and fixtures.

Gurgling Noises

When your drain makes a gurgling sound, it usually means that there is something clogging it. Over time, grease and dirt accumulate in your drains, causing water to drain slowly.

This issue should be resolved as soon as possible or you may find yourself with a backed up drain along with the foul smell that comes with it. If a gurgling sound occurs in every drain in your house, there is a bigger blockage in the main pipe and not in a smaller pipe attached to the fitting drain.

Any time you have an issue with your pipes, contact the experts at Locklear Plumbing in Calhoun, GA. for a plumbing inspection. They will be happy to come to your home to determine what causes your plumbing to make noise. For your convenience, emergency service is always available.