Hearing strange sounds from your water pipes can be unsettling, but you’re not alone. Mr. Rooter Plumbing dives into some of the most common causes of noisy pipes and when you might want to call a plumber.
One of the most common reasons pipes make noise is due to a condition known as water hammer. A water hammer happens when water flow is suddenly stopped or redirected, creating a loud banging sound. When you turn off a faucet quickly, the water rushing toward it has nowhere to go and slams against the pipe walls. This can cause quite a racket and even damage in the long run if it keeps happening.
A water hammer can put a lot of stress on your pipes over time. If it happens frequently, a plumber might suggest installing an air chamber or water hammer arrestor to absorb the shock of the water. In some cases, if the noise has damaged your pipes, you might need a pipe replacement or even repiping in parts of your home.
While high water pressure might make for a powerful shower, it can also be a problem for your plumbing. High-pressure forces water through the pipes with great force, which can cause them to vibrate or rattle. A plumber can measure the pressure and, if needed, install a pressure regulator. This device keeps water pressure at a safer level and reduces noise.
Loose or unsecured pipes can also be a source of noise in your home. When water moves through a pipe that isn’t secured tightly, it can cause the pipe to rattle, creating an annoying sound. These vibrations can get louder over time as the fittings or brackets holding the pipes in place wear down.
A quick fix may involve securing the pipes with clips or brackets to keep them steady. However, if the pipes have been rattling for a while, it’s wise to call a plumber for a thorough inspection. They can check if any parts have been damaged and decide if a pipe replacement is necessary. In extreme cases, repiping a section may be required to ensure everything is secure and safe.
As the water temperature inside your pipes changes, they expand and contract. When hot water flows through, the metal or plastic pipes heat up and expand, while cooling water causes them to contract. This natural expansion and contraction can create creaking or popping sounds, especially in older homes where pipes have less room to move.
These noises aren’t necessarily harmful, but if they’re loud enough to be bothersome, you can call a plumbing service to evaluate the situation. Sometimes, adding insulation or repositioning the pipes can reduce the noise. A plumber can tell you if pipe replacement or repiping is a better option to resolve the issue.
Another common cause of noisy pipes is air trapped in the plumbing system. If you hear a gurgling or bubbling sound, it’s likely due to air pockets within the pipes. This can happen if there’s an issue with your water pressure or if you recently had a plumbing repair service done and the system wasn’t purged of air properly.
To get rid of the trapped air, you may be able to “bleed” the pipes by turning on all your faucets to let the air escape. However, calling a plumber for assistance is a good idea if the sound persists.
Pipes wear out over time, especially in older homes with decades-old plumbing systems. As pipes age, they can become thin, corroded, or damaged, increasing noise as water flows through them. This noise might sound like hissing, cracking, or clanging.
If you’re hearing these sounds in an older home, it may be time to consider repiping. Replacing old pipes can prevent leaks, improve water flow, and reduce noise. A reliable plumbing service can assess the condition of your pipes and help you decide if repiping is the best option.
If you’re experiencing any of the sounds described here, don’t ignore them. While some noises are harmless, others can signal a problem in your plumbing system. Here are a few steps you can take:
Noisy pipes may seem a nuisance, but they’re often an early warning sign of something bigger. Whether you call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for a quick check-up or to consider a pipe replacement, taking care of noisy pipes now can prevent bigger headaches in the future.