Noisy Pipes a Problem?

Creaking, rattling, roaring, and groaning noises coming from your pipes will definitely make you wonder what is happening within your walls. If any of these sounds are coming from your plumbing, try one (or all) of these easy fixes to see if they solve your problem. If not, give us a call today for a solution to your noisy pipes.

Rattling

If a rattling sound is emitted within your walls when you turn your faucet on, there is a chance that a pipe came loose from its strap or bracket that held it in place. Attempt to locate where the sound is originating. If you are lucky, the loose bracket is in an exposed, easy to reach area. Re-attach or add another bracket to secure the pipe back to its resting place. If you are less lucky, the loose pipe is behind the wall. If you don’t want to tear down a section of wall, you can check to see if the pipe leads to an exposed area where you can wedge padding between the pipe and wall to stop the rattling.

Groaning

Groaning noises can be the result of too much or too little air in the plumbing system. You will need to empty your water lines.

1. Turn off your main water valve.
2. Start at the furthest faucet from the main shut off valve and turn it on. Also flush toilets and start you dishwasher and washing machine. Keep them on (or flushing) until the water stops draining.
3. Once the water has stopped draining, you will need to turn off all the faucets. Begin at the closest faucet and begin to shut off each one, flushing the toilets one last time as you go.
4. Slowly turn the main valve back on.
5. You can test to see if it worked by turning on a faucet. If air comes sputtering out, then it confirms that it was the culprit. However, if the water turns back on without any air being forced out, consider hiring a pro to take a look at the pipes.

Banging

A banging sound coming from within your walls when you turn off a faucet- you could have a very serious issue at hand. Water hammer is when the water flow is abruptly stopped by a faucet or shut off valve. The water hits the stopping point and is rebounded back though the pipe, making a hammering sound. Clearing your system like you would if there were air in the pipes could solve the issue. If however, the sound continues, contact us today.

“Post-Flush” Sound

A creaking or a sound that makes you thing the toilet is still running (when it’s not) could be the result of a too high water pressure. This is easy to test for and correct. All you need is a water pressure gauge. If you don’t have one, it can be picked up for about $10 at any hardware store. Once you have the water pressure gauge, locate a spigot and screw the gauge in. Turn on the water and read the psi level. If it is over 80psi, you will need to install a pressure regulator at the water main. Set up an appointment with us to complete your installation.