4 Causes of Noisy Pipes and When You Should Worry

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

You have the information you need to prevent a pipe break.

Prevent a Pipe Break

Noisy pipes are a nuisance. There are many reasons your plumbing system may be making a racket. In addition to causing you to lose sleep, they can be an indication that something is going awry in your walls. Make sure you know the cause in order to prevent a pipe break.

1. Water Hammer

"Water hammer" is the term used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when your pipes have a fast-closing valve. This presents itself as a loud banging noise. There are several causes of water hammer, including:

• Water in air chambers
  
• High water pressure
  
• Hard-working appliances
  
• Loose pipes
  
  

While this is a common issue, it is one that needs to be addressed promptly. If not, this could cause excessive wear to your pipes. If you let a pipe break, you will have to:

• Fix broken pipe
  
• Repair parts
  
• Address water damage
  
  

2. Obstructions and Narrowing

If the noise you're hearing is more of a whistling, this is common and probably due to narrowing or obstruction of your pipes. This can be due to mineral buildup in the plumbing system, causing higher pressure in the pipes. Again, this can lead to a pipe burst if unresolved.

3. Cold Weather

In the colder months, you may notice popping sounds during the dropping temperatures. This is likely due to thermal expansion. It depends on what material your pipes are made out of, but materials such as copper are intended to expand and contract depending on the level of heat. You'll likely be using hot water, and the freezing pipes will crackle when it runs through. This isn't too concerning unless you hear one giant pop.

4. Leaks

Usually following any of these noises above, you will notice a water leak. On the other hand, your first indication could be a dripping sound. In either instance, you should contact your local water damage remediation experts in Crescent Springs, KY. An unaddressed water leak can lead to larger issues.
Now you know the different sounds your pipes can make. You know the possible causes. You have the information you need to prevent a pipe break.