What Is That Noise in My House?

Homes often make sounds, but while some noises are entirely normal, others can signal trouble with your plumbing or fixtures. Understanding common noises like gurgling, banging, or whistling can help you pinpoint—and resolve—potential issues.

Common Plumbing Noises and What They Mean

Gurgling: Is Your Wastewater System Talking?

Gurgling noises usually come from your wastewater system. The most common causes are:

• Clogged drains that need cleaning.

• Blocked or missing air supply vents, which create suction and pull water out of traps, leading to that classic gurgling sound.

If a bathtub trap becomes dry, you might also detect foul odors as sewer gases escape into your home. Slow or noisy drains often require professional cleaning or vent inspection to prevent bigger problems.

Whistling: Faulty Faucets and Fill Valves

Whistling noises are often caused by malfunctioning faucets or toilet tank fill valves. Water flowing past a partially closed opening, with air present, generates a distinctive whistle. Solutions include:

• Replacing internal faucet cartridges

• Repairing or replacing toilet shutoff valves

Whistling can also indicate high water pressure—a sign that should never be ignored.

Banging: When Pipes Hammer in the Walls

Banging or hammering sounds happen when pipes aren’t properly secured or become loose. Pipes should be fastened to every second joist (about every 32 inches). The worst hammering occurs with appliances using quick-closing valves or electric actuators, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

Solutions for Banging Pipes

• Install shock absorbers at supply lines to reduce noise.

• Hand-operated fixtures (like faucets) close more gradually, so they rarely cause this issue.

Whole Home Shock Absorbers: Advanced Protection

For persistent banging, a whole home shock absorber can be installed at the main water line, just after the water meter. Shaped like a small propane tank, this device is pre-pressurized and contains a rubber bladder. It absorbs excess pressure, preventing pipes from banging as the water system expands and contracts.

Recent Case Study: St Paul Pipeworks repiped a customer’s home to solve a banging noise. When the sound persisted, even after installing a whole home shock absorber, further investigation revealed the issue was with the water meter itself. The City of St. Paul replaced it free of charge—eliminating the noise.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Some noises can be fixed by a handy homeowner, but persistent or mysterious plumbing sounds mean it’s time to call a licensed plumber. St Paul Pipeworks goes the extra mile to ensure customers’ plumbing needs are fully addressed.

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If you’re hearing strange noises or simply need a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, contact St Paul Pipeworks today.

Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager

FAQs

Q: Why is my plumbing making noise?

A: Plumbing systems can produce various noises due to different reasons. Some common causes include:

• Water Hammer: When water abruptly stops or changes direction in a pipe, it creates a loud banging noise known as water hammer.
• Loose Pipes: Vibrations from water flow can cause pipes to become loose, resulting in rattling or knocking noises.
• Air in the Pipes: Trapped air can lead to gurgling or bubbling sounds when water flows through the pipes.
• Mineral Buildup: Sediment or mineral deposits in pipes can obstruct water flow, leading to whistling or hissing noises.
• High Water Pressure: Excessively high water pressure can cause loud banging or humming noises in the pipes.

Q: Can plumbing noises indicate a serious issue?

A: While some plumbing noises are harmless, others may indicate underlying problems that require attention. Ignoring certain noises can lead to more significant issues, such as burst pipes or leaks. It is essential to have a professional plumber inspect your plumbing system if you notice persistent, loud, or unusual noises.

Q: How can I prevent water hammering in my plumbing?

A: To prevent water hammer, you can take the following measures:

• Install Water Hammer Arrestors: These devices absorb sudden water pressure changes, preventing the loud banging noise.
• Adjust Water Pressure: Consider reducing the water pressure in your home if it’s excessively high.
• Secure Loose Pipes: Ensure all pipes are adequately fastened and secured to prevent unnecessary movement and vibrations.

Q: What should I do if my plumbing is making strange noises?

A: If your plumbing is producing unusual noises, you can follow these steps:

1. Identify the Source: Determine where the noise comes from to narrow down the possible causes.
2. Check for Obstructions: Ensure all drains are clear and debris-free.
3. Inspect for Leaks: Look for signs of leaks or dripping water around your plumbing fixtures.
4. Contact a Professional: If you cannot identify or resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber to diagnose and fix it correctly.

Q: How can I prevent plumbing noises in the future?

A: Regular maintenance and some preventive measures can help reduce plumbing noises:

• Annual Inspections: Schedule yearly plumbing inspections to catch and address any potential issues early.
• Water Softener: If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to prevent mineral buildup in the pipes.
• Proper Use: Avoid flushing foreign objects down the toilet and be mindful of what goes down the drains.
• Timely Repairs: Address any plumbing problems promptly before they escalate and cause more significant disruptions.