How to Quiet Noisy Pipes

Rattling, banging, and squeaking pipes can not only drive you crazy but also lead to major problems. If left unchecked, loose pipes can disconnect from mounting brackets, stressing the pipe and causing a leak. Here’s how you can quiet those noisy pipes and prevent further issues.

Identifying Common Pipe Noises

Water Hammer

If you hear a banging noise when turning the water on and off, water hammer is the likely cause. Water hammer occurs when the water chamber that normally cushions the water pressure becomes filled with water. The condition can usually be fixed by draining the pipes in the home to restore the chambers with air.

How to Fix Water Hammer:

1. Shut off the main water valve and open all faucets in your home to drain the pipes.
2. Once the water is completely drained, close the faucets and turn the main water valve back on.
3. The air chambers should now be filled with air, cushioning the water pressure and eliminating the banging noise.

Rattling Sounds

Rattling noises often indicate that your pipes are not securely anchored to the wood joists. Loose anchoring brackets can cause the pipes to vibrate and make noise.

How to Fix Rattling Pipes:

1. Inspect the pipes to ensure they are securely anchored to the wood joists.
2. Tighten any loose brackets to secure the pipes firmly in place.
3. If the brackets are damaged or missing, replace them with new ones to ensure a secure fit.

Vibration Noises

As pipes pass through holes in joists, they can come into contact with the wood framing. This contact can cause vibration noises.

How to Fix Vibration Noises:

1. Identify the points where the pipes pass through the joists and make contact with the wood.
2. Wrap the pipes with foam insulation or rubber padding to dampen the movement and reduce the noise.
3. Ensure the insulation is snug enough to prevent the pipes from vibrating against the wood framing.

Squeaking Pipes

Metal hot water pipes can expand and contract as the water temperature changes, causing them to rub against metal mounting straps. This can create squeaking noises.

How to Fix Squeaking Pipes:

1. Locate the metal mounting straps where the noise is occurring.
2. Add foam or rubber cushioning around the mounting straps to prevent the metal pipes from rubbing against them.
3. Ensure the cushioning is secure and covers all points of contact between the pipes and the straps.

Additional Tips for Quieting Noisy Pipes

• Check for Loose Pipe Straps: Regularly inspect your plumbing system for loose or damaged pipe straps and replace them as needed.
• Install Water Hammer Arrestors: If water hammer is a recurring issue, consider installing water hammer arrestors. These devices can absorb the shock and prevent the banging noise.
• Use Pipe Clips and Clamps: Ensure all pipes are secured with appropriate clips and clamps, especially in areas where they pass through walls and floors.
• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular plumbing maintenance to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.

Need Professional Help?

Have questions about plumbing noises in your home? Call Grand Lake Plumbing and Heating. We can help with all your plumbing needs. Our experienced technicians are equipped to handle any plumbing issue, ensuring your home remains quiet and leak-free.