Happy Drains Blog

What Causes Noisy Drains?

When pipes start to rattle and clunk or the taps start to squeak, it can be hard to identify what the culprit is. Let’s identify some of the causes of noisy pipes, so you can identify plumbing issues in the future.  

Water hammer

‘Water hammer’ is a term coined to name the rattling that occurs in the pipes. Pipes tend to hammer because of the speed and force with which water travels through the pipes and out of the taps. When we turn the taps off, we do so suddenly, but the energy in the water still needs to go somewhere. Some pipes have a vertical air chamber behind both the cold and hot water taps which the rushing water gets pushed up into, hitting a cushion of air which prevents rattling. Other pipes might have a commercial air cushion that is attached in the same place, working to the same effect. When the air in the chamber is lost over the years, the air cushion is also lost and this means there is nothing to prevent the taps from rattling.

Whistling and squeaking

Whistling or squeaking is caused by a worn out washer in a tap or valve. This is a particularly common issue with the valves that connect to the washing machine. If the squealing happens when the machine is in use, the problem can be easily resolved – you just have to shut the valve and check the washers in the hose. If you find they’re worn or cracked, then you can replace it. There are a few other reasons why you might hear whistling from your pipes, which you can learn more about here.

Banging sounds

The toilet

You might hear a strange banging noise that comes from the toilet after you flush or at the end of a fill cycle.  The reason for this could be that the ballcock assembly, which controls the toilets fill process, is worn out. Depending on its current condition, you might be able to repair it, or you could just buy a new one.

Pipes

If banging can be heard in the pipes, it could be due to excessively high water pressure. The water pressure can be adjusted using a water-pressure regulator or pressure-reducing valve. You should have a regulator in the same location as the main water supply to the house. If you don’t, then you can always get one installed. It’s a worthwhile investment, because without one it could damage washing machines, dishwashers, icemakers or other water supply automatic appliances.

Strange noises such as hissing, banging or rattling in the pipes or water systems have quite simple and easy solutions when you hire a professional, like Happy Drains, to fix them. If you’ve got noisy pipes that need silencing, contact us now.

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