Noisy pipes can be irritating, especially when turning on a faucet results in a loud bang and jump scare. These signs may also warrant further inspection for plumbing problems that, left unchecked, can cause more widespread and serious damage. Understanding what causes pipes to make noise when you turn the water on and when to call Ricky Heath in Macon, Georgia, for professional assistance protects your pipes and home.
What Causes Pipes To Make Noise When You Turn on the Water?
Plumbing noises often indicate vibrations throughout the system, typically from high water pressure, trapped air, or loose pipes. Some of these causes are relatively minor, while others may point to problems that can damage your plumbing system. Here are the most common causes of banging and other plumbing noises and what they mean for your home.
High water pressure
If water pressure in your home is too high, it can forcefully push water through the system, and the pipes may respond with a loud thud or shudder each time a valve closes. This noise tends to be sharp and sudden, especially when shutting off taps or when appliances with solenoid valves, such as dishwashers, cycle water quickly.
These valves close quickly, and water rushing toward them with several pounds of force may suddenly halt and slam against the valve and pipe. This turbulence repeatedly strains pipe joints and fittings and may eventually cause pipe leaks or bursts.
Air bubbles
When pockets of air become trapped in your plumbing lines, they can disrupt flow and create bubbling, popping, and sputtering noises when you open a faucet. These bubbles typically form after plumbing repair work, water main flushing, or supply interruptions, and their sounds are loudest at the beginning of a flow. While generally not harmful on their own, air in the lines can interfere with water pressure and may indicate a leak or failing valve in the system.
Clogged pipes
Obstructions inside the pipes restrict flow and raise internal pressure. As water forces its way past a clog, especially near elbows or valves, the pressure builds and releases unevenly, resulting in banging, whistling, or groaning noises.
Blockages usually form from foreign objects or the gradual buildup of minerals, grease, soap scum, or food debris. A noticeable drop in water pressure consistently accompanied by a strange sound may point to a localized clog, but blockages can also occur deeper in the lines.
Loose components
Pipes should be secured to the framing to prevent them from moving during normal use. If fasteners or brackets become loose, pipes can rattle against studs, drywall, or joists when water flows through them.
This issue is most obvious in accessible areas, such as under sinks or in basements, but it may also cause the pipes to bang when the water is turned on.
Thermal expansion
Hot water flowing through pipes can cause thermal expansion, where metal pipes heat up and consequently lengthen. As the pipes expand against joists, studs, or mounting hardware, the resulting friction and vibration may create banging sounds.
When the flow stops, the pipes cool, contract, and produce the same noises as they revert to their standard size. Although thermal expansion is expected, insufficient space for pipe expansion may repeatedly stress and wear down pipes, fasteners, and other structures.
Water heater sediment buildup
Certain minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, can settle at the bottom of water heater tanks in homes with hard water. When the water heats, the sediment shifts, causing popping, rumbling, or banging noises that travel through connected plumbing lines. These sounds often develop gradually as sediment buildup accumulates and are more pronounced during longer periods of heater use.
What Is Water Hammer — and Is It Dangerous?
Water hammer happens when moving water suddenly stops, and the pressure that builds behind the pipe wall, valve, or other obstruction creates a shockwave that travels through the system. This pressure surge can sound like a single loud bang or several thuds in quick succession. Pipes respond by vibrating or flexing, sometimes strongly enough to be felt in nearby walls or floors.
Water hammer typically occurs in pressurized plumbing systems and is more noticeable when water travels quickly. Air chambers and water hammer arrestors absorb this force in a balanced system. Without this protection, the energy has nowhere to go and transfers directly into the pipe walls. This makes water hammer a recurring issue, especially in systems with high water pressure or older pipes lacking adequate support. For example, loose brackets, trapped air, and other noise-causing problems described above can worsen regular occurrences of water hammer.
The danger of water hammer
Although water hammer is mostly a noisy annoyance, repeated stress on pipe walls, joints, and fittings may damage your plumbing system. This force can cause loose connections, leaks, and cracks, and systems with worn or corroded materials are especially vulnerable.
Internal valves in dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are also sensitive to sudden pressure changes. Repeated hammering wears these parts out, potentially reducing the lifespan of your appliances.
How To Prevent and Fix Noisy Pipes
Once you understand the source of the noise, the next step is to fix it and prevent further problems. Depending on the nature of the problem and the condition of your plumbing, some solutions involve small adjustments, while others may require system upgrades or professional help.
Install water hammer arrestors
Water hammer arrestors are mechanical devices that absorb pressure surges and prevent shockwaves from traveling through pipes. They’re commonly installed near appliances with fast-acting valves, such as washing machines or dishwashers.
Drain air chambers
Some plumbing systems use vertical air chambers to absorb pressure changes. If water fills the chamber, it can’t compress properly and can’t cushion abrupt changes in flow. To restore function, shut off the main water valve, drain the system through open taps, and close everything before switching the water back on.
Check for and secure loose pipes
Check exposed plumbing in basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks for loose hangers or worn supports. Replace missing brackets and add cushioning between the pipe and nearby framing, such as foam pipe insulation. In some cases, securing pipes may require accessing behind walls. If the noise is persistent and inaccessible, a plumber can use diagnostic tools to identify and repair the problem.
Lower the water pressure
If needed, a plumber can test your home’s supply pressure and install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) to bring water pressure between 40 and 60 psi. Installing a PRV near the main water line regulates flow and minimizes sudden pressure changes.
Call a professional plumber
While some pipe noises are easy to troubleshoot, others are hidden behind walls, under floors, or inside appliances. A professional plumber can pinpoint the cause, inspect for other damage, and provide a permanent fix.
Prevent and Fix Noisy Pipes With Ricky Heath Plumbing Services
Noisy pipes in your walls and under your sinks often mean your plumbing system needs professional attention. The Ricky Heath plumbing team delivers expert service with care, speed, and quality. We spot hidden problems and provide permanent solutions. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and enjoy quieter pipes and peace of mind.
