You may have noticed some noises coming from your water pipes and wondered if this is dangerous. Luckily, we have done research on this for you, and here is what we found.
Noisy water pipes are dangerous. The noise can be a sign of plumbing problems. Furthermore, the noises can cause damage to the connections and joints in the pipes if ignored.
There are ways to resolve noisy water pipes before the damage becomes irreversible. Keep reading to get detailed information about noisy water pipes and how you can deal with them.
Are Noisy Water Pipes Dangerous?
When you abruptly turn off running water, the fast-moving liquid inside the pipe becomes trapped. So it jolts against the shut-off valve, making loud noises that can ruin the connections and joints in the pipe. This noise is also known as a water hammer.
Fixing Noisy Water Pipes
Since noisy water pipes are dangerous, you should deal with the problem as soon as possible. The following measures will help you tackle noisy water pipes:
Examine The Air Chamber
The air chamber is a vertically designed pile found near the faucet. Unfortunately, the air chamber loses its effectiveness when filled with water.
To fix the air chamber, you have to switch off the water from the main source. Next, open the faucets and ensure all the water from the plumbing system drains. Then switch on the water from its main source. After this, the water will come from the pipe, not the air chamber.
Install Arrestors
The arrestor is a little device designed with a shock absorber, and it is connected to the water pipes. It redirects the water force as soon as you turn off the faucet. Unlike an air chamber, the arrestor cannot become waterlogged.
Installing an arrestor is not hard if you are skilled. However, most homeowners would need the assistance of a plumbing contractor.
Why Do My Water Pipes Sound Like A Foghorn?
Several issues can cause a foghorn sound in a pipe. These include problems linked to a loose faucet washer, a bad ballcock, or a defective valve.
Loose Faucet Washer
If your pipes sounds like a foghorn when you turn on your faucet, the problem is probably coming from the faucet washer. So ensure the screws are tightened throughout the faucet system to try and stop this problem. If the sound continues, get in touch with a professional plumber.
Bad Ballcock
A bad ballcock is one of the most common reasons your water pipes make the foghorn sound. If you hear this sound anytime you use the toilet, a defective ballcock, also known as a flapper, may be the cause.
When the ballcock gets old, it shudders and can no longer close the valve very well. Consequently, you hear a loud noise.
The easiest way to fix this is by popping the top of the toilet to see if you can replace the ball part of the valve so that it can close properly. You may need to contact a professional plumber to replace the whole valve.
Defective Valve
If your dishwasher or washing machine makes noise as water fills them up, the problem may be caused by a worn-out valve related to the one in your toilet. This valve is stronger, smaller, and harder to reach. You should get it replaced as soon as possible.
To fix a noisy pipe, you must identify the source of the sound. It is easy to replace a faulty ballcock or loose faucet washer. But more technical cases, especially that of a worn-out valve, need a professional plumber.
Why Is My Water Pipe Making A Gurgling Sound?
If pipes have difficulty draining, they may start making gurgling sounds. Usually, this noise implies that something is obstructing the pipe.
Soap scum, hard water, or mineral deposits on the pipe's side can cause the blockage. To fix this, call a professional to take care of the obstruction.
What Does It Mean When Your Water Pipes Groan?
Different sounds can come from the water pipes. A groaning sound indicates a constriction in the waterline. As water goes through the narrow part, it will make this sound.
This problem happens when the washers and internal fixtures go bad. You must check the hot and cold water lines to identify the problematic area.
To fix this, turn on the cold water alone, then turn it off and turn on the hot water. If you hear the sound when the hot or cold water is on, or the sound persists when the two are on, you need to replace the faucet.
Why Is My Water Pipe Making Banging Noise?
Generally, pipes make banging noises due to water pressure and flow. Water hammers and trapped bubbles are usually responsible for the banging noise. We pointed out that a water hammer happens when the valve suddenly closes. Water hammers cause a series of minor bangs in pipes.
Air can get stuck in the pipes if the water line is defective. If the banging noise results from trapped air, there is a higher chance that you will hear the noise immediately when you turn on the faucet. You may also notice sputtering when the air bubble moves.
Water hammers and trapped bubbles can occur due to different reasons. You may need a professional to tackle the problem.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix Noisy Water Pipes?
On estimate, professionals charge around $78 to fix noisy water pipes. However, you may incur more on repair costs if you identify the problem at an advanced stage. So take action as soon as you notice the problem.
Repairing water hammers does not take much time. For most plumbers, it may take roughly half an hour.
Do Water Pipes Make Noise Before They Burst?
Although water pipes rarely burst, prolonged periods of damage can cause them to come apart. These pipes will make noise before they burst.
These are some reasons why water pipes burst.
Blockages
Clogs in the water system cause pressure to build up. Since the water can only flow through the pipes, they will start leaking and then burst eventually.
Address clogs at an early stage to avoid the build-up of water pressure.
Corrosion
Corrosion happens when there is a high concentration of minerals in the water. A high concentration makes rust form, thus weakening the pipe. When the pipe is in this state, a small change in water pressure can cause it to burst. However, proper maintenance can curb this.
Harsh Weather
A pipe can burst when the temperature increases rapidly. Because pipes tend to freeze during harsh winter weather, if you turn on very hot water when the pipes are frozen, both the pipe and ice may shatter.
Movement
A pipe can burst because of movement. For example, extreme cold can cause the metal to contract, leading to leaks and bursts. Bursts are also possible if there is movement in pipes due to other activities.
Because most of these causes are preventable, it is best to resolve the problem before it gets worse.
To Wrap Up
Now you know that noisy water pipes can be dangerous and disastrous if left unattended. Make sure to solve any problems early. Doing this will save you money and also prevent your pipes from bursting.
If you enjoyed reading this post, here are similar articles you may like:
What's The Best Insulation For Copper Hot Water Pipes?