There are many things in life that tend to be noisy, however, your water pipes should not be one of them. Unfortunately, it happens sometimes that water pipes make noises due to weather, clogs, and various other factors.
What Typically Causes Noisy Water Pipes?
Any unusual noise that is emanating from the region of your pipes might be a reason for concern. But before you start panicking, the sooner the source of the noise is established, the quicker the issue can be fixed. Here are some factors that can contribute to noisy water pipes:
- Toilets
- Worn-out washers
- Water hammer
- Main shut off valve
- Loose pipes
Toilets
If you notice a rattling or banging noise after flushing when it comes to the end of its fill cycle, the issue usually lies with the ballcock assembly that is responsible for filling the tank water. It could be worn. You may be able to repair it yourself, but often it must be replaced.
Worn Out Washers
Worn-out washers in a valve or faucet often result in squeaky or whistling water pipes. The direct cause of the squealing is typically in the valves which are connected to a washing machine. If the noise starts when the washer is operational, the problem is easily fixed. The valve must be shut off and the washers in the hose are checked. If they appear to be cracked or worn, merely replace them. If this does not solve the problem, you will have to shut off the home’s water and repair the tap. It is possible that a washer in the faucet is worn or the valve seat, which forces water through a tinier opening and causes noisy pipes. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, be sure to call
Huntington Beach Plumbers to resolve the issue swiftly and professionally.
Water Hammer
One of the most regular causes is referred to as water hammer. Usually, water gushes through the pipe and exit through the faucet with immense force and speed. Once the faucet is closed, the water will be brought to an instant halt. However, the energy must find an outlet somewhere. There is usually an air chamber in the pipe behind each cold and hot faucet. In the past, it was about ten inches of pipe that was vertically soldered. Once the gushing water stopped, the vertical pipe would be pushed up once the water hit the air pocket in the pipe. This would prevent rattling pipes that were caused by the water force or hammer. Nowadays, commercial air cushions are attached to the pipe in the exact location. Hammering can develop in the course of a few years if the air in the vertical riser is gone, eliminating the cushioning effect. Water hammering can be discarded by shutting off your main water, then opening all the faucets and draining the entire house, starting from the lowest faucet. Once the water is restored, it will push into the risers which are designed for preventing water hammer.
Main Shut Off Valve
Squealing pipes can also be due to the main
shut off valve or water pressure regulator (mainly once it seems to come through the whole house). To try and fix the issue, turn off your water at the valve in the street and then have the main house valve repaired or replaced. If the issue persists and a pressure reducer is present on incoming cold water, then it might be a faulty reducer’s manifold.
Loose Pipes
A loose pipe underneath the house may also be the root cause of rattling water pipes. Drainpipes which are typically poised from the floor joists underneath the home might just require a little stabilization to sort out the issue.
