September 18/2024
How to Identify Common Household Plumbing Noises
It’s normal to hear a soft, rushing sound when you open a faucet. However, loud noises coming from your plumbing are a cause for alarm. Left unaddressed, these noises can escalate into more serious and expensive problems. Below, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explains some of the common household plumbing noises, what they mean, and how to address them.
- Knocking or Banging Sounds in Water Pipes
If your water pipes are making knocking or banging sounds, you likely have loose pipes or a water hammer. Your pipes can become loose as a result of poor installation, excessively high water pressure, soil shifting, and normal wear and tear. Loose pipes should never be ignored, as they can result in water leaks and structural damage. Call an experienced plumber specializing in pipe repair to inspect your piping and provide an effective solution.
A water hammer occurs when moving water comes to a sudden stop. If you hear loud, banging noises when you turn off a faucet or valve quickly, you’ll know you’re having a water hammer. Before anything else, measure the water pressure to ensure it’s between 30 and 80 pounds per square inch (psi). Next, open a faucet at the highest point in your home while the water supply is turned off. If these steps do not address the problem, call a skilled plumber in New Jersey to fix the water hammer.
- High-Pitched Squealing in Water Heater
High-pitched squealing in a water heater is often a sign of a mechanical issue. This noise can be caused by several factors, including loose components, sediment buildup, or electrical problems. Addressing a high-pitched squealing in a water heater typically requires professional assistance, as it could indicate a more serious problem that could lead to a breakdown or water damage. A plumber can diagnose the exact cause of the noise and recommend the appropriate solution, which may include replacing the pump or motor, tightening loose components, flushing the heater, or repairing electrical issues.
- Gurgling Sounds Coming From the Drains
You’ve probably heard your drains gurgle before, especially when you run water down the drain. While most homeowners think it’s not a big deal, it actually indicates a problem that needs to be addressed. Gurgling sounds are a common sign of a clogged drain that’s restricting water flow. Thankfully, clearing a clogged drain is a fairly simple process that takes just a few minutes. Grab a plunger and plunge the drain forcefully for several minutes. If a plunger doesn’t work, try a drain snake. Insert the snake into the drain opening and rotate it clockwise to dislodge the clog. If you’re unable to get rid of the clog, get in touch with a trusted plumbing service for help.
Another common cause of gurgling sounds is air trapped in the pipes. Air can make it into your water pipes through broken parts in your plumbing system or faulty vents. While air in water pipes may not damage your plumbing, it can cause spluttering faucets, reduced water pressure, and loud noises coming from the water lines. You can remove air from your water pipes by turning off your main water supply valve and then opening all the faucets in your home to allow the air to escape. If the problem persists, call a professional plumbing repair service to perform an inspection and make the necessary repairs.
Noisy plumbing? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for plumbing repair. We provide a full spectrum of plumbing solutions for both homeowners and businesses. Call us today if you’re looking for fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing service.
