Noisy pipes can be an annoyance to any homeowner as you hear random thuds throughout the day. This can lead to lack of sleep and increased stress as you deal with the unwanted noise. If you want to avoid your pipes from banging and thudding at all hours, you should understand what causes noisy pipes to begin with. Hiring a plumber in Downriver Michigan may be needed to address the issue but it is important to understand exactly what is going on with your pipes.
What Causes Noisy Water Pipes and What You Can Do About It in Downriver Michigan
There are several different kinds of noises pipes can make and they all have their own cause. Understanding what is happening in your home may be difficult to diagnose and chances are, when you do find out what is happening you’ll need to hire a licensed plumber to address the issue.
Banging or Hammering Noises in your home
One of the most common noises caused by pipes are bangs caused by the water hammer. The water hammer is the aftermath of water hitting the pipes or shut off valve when the faucet is turned off and the pressure remains high inside. These noises don’t tend to be random, instead of occurring shortly after turning off your water.
To prevent the water hammer from occurring, you will first need to reset the air chambers in your water system. This is done by turning off the main shut off valve and then opening all faucets. This will drain the pipes completely and stop the build up from occurring. It is crucial that you do not miss a single faucet, whether it is in the basement or in the yard. They are all connected and it is important that they all are open to fully drain and relieve the pressure. Basically, you’re attempting to introduce air into the line to soften the impact of sudden water turn offs and ons.
If you are still experiencing the banging in your pipes it may indicate an issue with the pipe itself and how it is fitting. If the pipes are too loose and not fitting correctly they can shift and bang as the water goes through it. You will need to have a plumber come out to check your pipes and fix these issues.
Whistling Noises in your home
Whistling pipes are usually less of an issue with the pipes themselves and more to do with a worn or broken part in the sink or toilet. For sinks, the washers in them can get worn down over time and create a whistling sound when run. Aerators and valves are also sources for whistling when they malfunction. Simply replacing these parts will sole the problem.
If the whistling seems to be coming more from the walls, rather than just one sink, shower or toilet, then this can be due to a build up of minerals in the pipes. This will require a plumber to flush out and examine for further damage. When the minerals wear the pipes down too much they will need to be replaced.
Vibrating or Twanging Noises
If your water pressure is too high, you can hear a twanging or vibrating noise in your pipes. You should make sure that the pressure isn’t going above 80 psi and have a regulator installed if there are further issues.
Squeaking or Rubbing Noises
When copper pipes aren’t properly insulated they can rub together as hot water flows through them. You can fix this by either reducing the water temperature going through the pipes, or add more insulation to the pipes.
Dripping Noises
If you hear a dripping noise you are more than likely experiencing a leak in your piped. This exposure to moisture in your walls can be hazardous as it can effect electrical wiring or allow mold to grow. You will need to have a plumber out to find and fix the leak as soon as possible. Until they are able to get out there it is recommended that you turn down the water pressure in your pipes to lessen the leak.
When you have any type of noises in your home it will almost always require the assistance of a professional plumber. One of the best in Downriver Michigan is Downriver Plumbers. Call them today at 734-548-9925 for details on the services they offer for this problem.
