What’s That Sound?
6 Plumbing Noises You Should Never Ignore
If your pipes are making strange sounds, don’t just shrug it off as plumbing noises are often a warning sign that something’s not right behind the scenes. Whether it’s banging in the walls, gurgling from the drain, or a high-pitched whistle when you turn on the tap, these sounds usually mean your system is under stress and could use a professional check-up.
Here are six common plumbing noises you should never ignore and what they might be telling you.
1. Banging or “Water Hammer”
What it sounds like: A loud bang or thud when you turn off the tap or your washing machine finishes filling.
What it means: This is often caused by a phenomenon called water hammer, which happens when water suddenly stops or changes direction in your pipes. It can loosen fittings, damage valves, or even burst pipes if left unchecked.
How to Fix it: Installing water hammer arrestors or adjusting your home’s water pressure can often solve the issue. For more troubleshooting we recommend checking out this article on water hammer solves.
2. Whistling or Screeching Faucets
What it sounds like: A high-pitched squeal or whine when you open a tap or shower.
What it means: This is usually caused by a worn-out washer, loose valve, or mineral buildup restricting water flow. It’s often a simple fix but should be addressed before it gets worse.
How to Fix it: Replacing the affected fixture or valve usually does the trick.
3. Gurgling Drains
What it sounds like: A bubbling or gurgling noise when water is draining—especially in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
What it means: This often points to a partially blocked drain or venting problem. Air is getting trapped and causing that glug-glug sound. Left alone, this can lead to a full backup.
How to Fix it: A drain inspection or vent cleaning may be needed. Check out our post on safe drain cleaner alternatives if you’re tempted to pour chemicals down there.
4. Hissing Pipes
What it sounds like: A constant hissing or rushing sound, even when no water is running.
What it means: This could indicate a leak in your system, especially if the sound is coming from behind a wall or near your water heater. Leaks like this can waste water and cause structural damage over time.
How to Fix it: Don’t wait, have it inspected ASAP to avoid major repairs.
5. Vibrating Pipes
What it sounds like: A humming or vibrating noise when you turn on an appliance or faucet.
What it means: Your water pressure might be too high, or a pipe may be loose and rattling. This constant vibration can wear out pipe joints and lead to leaks.
How to Fix it: A pressure regulator or simple pipe brace can usually solve this.
6. Running Toilet or Dripping Sounds
What it sounds like: Water running in the toilet long after a flush or a faint dripping sound at night.
What it means: Worn-out flappers, fill valves, or slow leaks. Not only is it annoying it can waste hundreds of litres of water per day.
How to Fix it: These are quick fixes for a plumber and can save you money on your water bill.
Why You Should Listen to Your Plumbing 💡
Plumbing noises are your home’s way of telling you something needs attention and ignoring them can lead to leaks and water damage, pipe bursts, higher utility bills and worst case, full blown plumbing emergencies.
Prevention is also key and can help save you cash. Check out our “Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for a safe winter season” on the blog.
So, if you are hearing something strange don’t wait, call me today. I’ll track down the issue and provide a solution.
💧🔧📞 250 207 5488