4 Pipe Noises You Should Never Ignore

At High Speed Plumbing, we help homeowners identify a wide range of pipe issues and fix them before they cause more problems. We’ve built an exceptional reputation for offering top-rated pipe repair services. In this post, we’ll talk about 4 unusual sounds that mean your pipes need help.

Banging Or Knocking

If you hear banging or knocking sounds, you’re probably dealing with a water hammer. This phenomenon is caused by the sudden stopping or changing of direction of water flowing inside a pipe. It happens when a valve closes abruptly or water pressure exceeds the acceptable limit. In some cases, a water hammer can be a result of unsecured pipes hitting walls. Over time, banging sounds coming from pipes can loosen fittings and result in leaks. Here are tips to prevent or fix banging or knocking sounds:

• Install a water hammer arrestor
• Adjust the water pressure, keeping it within the acceptable limit
• Call a plumber to tighten pipe straps

Rattling Inside Walls

It’s normal to hear a light “whoosh” when water is flowing through your pipes. However, rattling noises inside walls are an indication of loose brackets or unsecured lines. This is a common occurrence in older homes whose plumbing is several decades old. What your plumbing is trying to tell you is that loose pipes are banging against interior wall surfaces.

As soon as you begin to hear rattling sounds inside your walls, call a local plumber so that the problem can be fixed. It might seem like a minor issue at the moment, but the problem will get worse over time. A professional plumber can secure the loose pipes and stop the noise without tearing the walls.

Gurgling Drains

If your sink, shower, or toilet makes a gurgling sound after water drains away, there may be a blockage somewhere in the drain or vent system. As water tries to move through a partially clogged pipe, trapped air bubbles back through the drain, creating the familiar gurgling noise.