What are Those Noises in my Pipes?

Have you ever been relaxing in your living room, maybe reading or quietly watching TV when you start hearing strange pops and bangs coming from your pipes? Some homeowners chalk those noises up to just normal household noises while some start to worry if something is going on. Some plumbing noises are downright unnerving!

We get calls from worried homeowners asking about noises are in their pipes, so we are going to share some insights here for you to understand what those noises might be and when to call a plumber to check things out. We’ll share four common pipe noises and their causes.

What is That Hammering Noise in My Pipes?

This distinct hammering noise is one of the most common loud sounds coming from your pipes and usually occurs right after shutting off a faucet. It’s caused because the water was shut off, and because of high water pressure, the water needs somewhere to go. Where does it go? It usually ends up banging into the valve, causing that hammering noise.

What is That Humming Noise in My Pipes?

If you hear a humming noise coming from your pipes, that usually means you have high water pressure. The humming is actually the pipes vibrating from the high pressure. Read your home’s water pressure to check that it’s between 45-80 psi. If it’s higher, you’ll want the pressure turned down to ease up on your pipes.

What is That Knocking Noise?

Do you hear a knocking sound even if there is no water running? This knocking sound tends to be from sediment build up in your water heater. Over time, your water heater will accumulate sediment, and the knocking noise is from steam bubbling up from the sediment. Learn how to maintain your water heater and help it run efficiently.

How to Drain Your Water Heater:

• Shut off the cold water supply to the unit
• Connect a garden hose to the drain valve
• Run the water into a bucket until the water is clear

Where is That Whistling Noise Coming From?

Do you hear a whistling noise from your pipes? You may hear a whistling sound while you’re using a particular faucet or after you flush the toilet. A whistling faucet typically means there’s a worn washer or other worn our part. A whistling toilet might mean it needs a new ballcock valve. Do you hear the whistling throughout your pipes and home? There could be a mineral deposit buildup or a worn our main water supply valve.

When to Call a Plumber

If you can’t figure out where the noises are coming from or why it’s a good idea to have a plumber check your plumbing to diagnose. You’ll want to tackle any plumbing issues as soon as possible and go back to enjoying a peaceful house.

Contact your local plumber to take care of those pesky pipe noises. One Hour Rooter is your trusted plumber in the Twin Cities Metro area. Call us at 612-354-8984 if you need help with any plumbing.