Why Are Your Water Pipes Noisy?

Your water pipes ensure a constant flow of water to your home. So when the pipes are faulty, it can be a considerable inconvenience.

Luckily, you can quickly identify problematic water pipes, and one way to do that is by the sound they make. While some noises from water pipes are normal, others can indicate a problem. Discover some odd sounds and what they mean.

Water Hammer

A banging or thumping sound is a tell-tale sign of a water hammer. This issue happens when the pressure in your pipes changes suddenly.

Water hammer often occurs when you turn off a tap suddenly, such as when doing laundry or dishes. You can also hear this noise if you quickly open and shut multiple valves.

A water hammer is not always an issue to worry about, but it could indicate an underlying plumbing problem. For instance, air chambers — designed to prevent pressure surges — could be blocked with sediment and require cleaning by a professional plumber.

Loose Pipe Fittings

Your pipes feature connecting pipes and fittings that ensure a secure fit when tightened together correctly. If any of these pieces become loose, they may create rattling, vibrating, or clunking sounds.

You can easily access some of these pipes and fittings, such as those behind a sink or toilet. If you can identify the noise source, try to tighten any loose sections but don't attempt to tighten bolts or replace the components if you lack the plumbing experience. Instead, let a professional plumber inspect the piping. The specialist may recommend re-routing the pipes or replacing them with more durable ones.

High Water Pressure

Humming sounds are primarily a result of high water pressure. When the pressure is higher than it should be, the pressure may cause the pipes to vibrate, resulting in noise.

Most plumbing systems have a pressure regulator, which helps balance the pressure in pipes. The ideal pressure should be between 40 and 80 psi. If you suspect the pressure is too high, contact a plumber to check and adjust the regulator if necessary.

Clogged Pipes

If you hear gurgling or whistling noises, that could be a sign of clogged pipes. When water flow is blocked in any way — whether due to debris or any other obstruction — the solid particles may circulate and vibrate in the pipes, causing strange noises.

However, note that gurgling sounds may occur as the pipes try to drain excess water, such as after flushing the toilet. So don't automatically assume that there's a clog. Instead, let a plumber video inspect the pipes to confirm.

Copper Pipes

If you have copper pipes, they may expand and contract as the temperature changes. For example, if you use hot water, the pipes may widen and make more noise. The heat causes the pipe to rub against brackets and joints, resulting in a squeaking sound.

The best way to mitigate this issue is by adding insulation around the pipes, such as foam tubing, to reduce friction. You may also reduce the temperature of the water to help reduce the noise and protect your pipes from further damage. And if the issue persists, let a plumber inspect the lines to identify any weak sections.

No matter the cause of the strange noises coming from your water pipes, don't ignore them. While not all noises indicate a plumbing issue, err on the side of caution and have an experienced plumber inspect your plumbing system for any underlying issues.

The professional can identify vulnerable sections, replace defective fixtures, adjust pressure regulators, and install insulation to prevent pipe expansion. Letting a professional will help you keep your plumbing system in top-notch condition and ensure that any issues are addressed quickly before they become significant problems.

You can trust us at Peter Piper's Plumbing to inspect and repair your water pipes. Check our website to request services.