Nobody likes being disturbed by noisy water pipes. Whether the banging, whistling, and creaking are constant or sporadic and at unexpected times, this phenomenon can be immensely frustrating, not to mention disruptive.
What’s even worse is that these noises can sometimes be a sign of a bigger problem. Ignoring them will only make the situation worse. So, what causes noisy water pipes, and what can you do to fix the problem? Let’s take a look.
Technically called a hydraulic shock; a water hammer is one of the most common causes of noisy pipes. It occurs when a shut-off valve closes too quickly, sending a shockwave through the pipe system and causing loud banging noises. The solution here is for a plumber to install air chambers or water hammer arresters to absorb the shockwaves instead of allowing them to reverberate throughout your home.
High water pressure can also be a noisy culprit. When water pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your pipes and fittings, leading to all sorts of problems, including leaks, burst pipes, and, yes, noise. The best way to fix this problem is to have us install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on your main water line. This will automatically keep your water pressure safe, protecting your plumbing and preventing noisy pipes.
Suppose your home has older galvanised steel or cast iron pipes. In that case, they may be corroded or clogged with mineral deposits. This can restrict water flow and cause banging or knocking noises as water tries to squeeze through the restricted area.
The only way to fix this problem is to replace the affected piping with new copper or PEX piping. Replacing pipes is a job for us, not the home handyman, as it involves working with your home’s main water line, which, if not done by a licensed plumber, can cause significant damage.
Noisy water pipes are more than just a nuisance; while often it’s a simple fix, sometimes they’re a sign of a bigger underlying problem. If you’re dealing with noisy pipes, don’t ignore them!
The sooner we can identify and fix the problem, the better off your plumbing will be in the long run. When you need help getting rid of those pesky plumbing noises, call Eco Earth Plumbing at 0404 023 023. Our experienced professionals will quickly identify the source of the noise and have things fixed up in no time.