Water Pipes Making Noise? Identify the Cause of 7 Different Sounds

Several problems can cause water pipes to make noise, such as loose fasteners, water pressure issues, and obstructions. Some problems are quick fixes that many homeowners can address themselves, while others are best left to the pros. This guide covers common reasons why you might have noisy water pipes and the best ways to fix them. 

1. Rattling

Rattling may be a sign of a loose or fallen fastener. As water navigates through each section of a pipe, you may hear a rattling noise if a fastener has become loose or fallen away. Pipes must be securely fastened to work properly and avoid rattling. 

If they’re accessible to you, you can typically tighten or replace fasteners yourself. Just be sure to ask around at the hardware store to find the appropriate fastener type for your pipes.

2. Banging

If you abruptly shut off your water faucet or valve, you may create a water hammer or air bubbles. Imagine the rushing water expecting to find an exit but instead discovering a closed valve. The sudden valve closure can create a loud banging noise or sequences of small banging noises. Besides making alarming noises, a water hammer can create connection and joint trouble in your pipes.

“Washing machine valves are some of the most common causes of water hammer,” says Jeff Botelho, Expert Review Board member and Massachusetts-licensed journeyman plumber. 

“They close rapidly, causing pipes to shake and create a loud bang. An easy solution is adding hose-threaded hammer arresters to your washing machine supply valves, between the valves and the washing machine hoses.”

Air can also become trapped in your pipes due to issues in the water line. If the air in the pipes causes the banging, the noise will mostly occur right when you first turn on a faucet. You may also notice sputtering as the air bubble travels. Try installing a water pressure regulator to see if this does the trick, or have a pro come and look at your pipes.

3. Humming

High water pressure may cause your pipes to create humming noises. A signal that the water pressure has exceeded its capacity is when the pipes start vibrating and making humming noises. High water pressure is prevalent in homes using well water. 

Make sure if your house uses well water, the setting does not exceed 55 pounds per square inch. It’s a good idea to hire a professional to test the water pressure if you don’t have access to a reading. A pro will also know how to fix vibrating water pipes. 

4. Gurgling

An obstruction can cause your pipes to make gurgling noises. Someone may have accidentally dropped something down the drain, or the gurgling noise could be caused by soap or dirt buildup or mineral deposits. A plumber can easily remove the obstruction and make your home quiet and peaceful again.

5. High-Pitched Sounds 

The frequent motion of washers, dryers, and other large appliances can erode the nuts and bolts in piping. Over time, these small components break down, creating high-pitched sounds. However, in some cases, the hardware is still intact. All you need to do is tighten a screw or a washer. 

High water pressure or very hot water moving through pipes can also cause high-pitched sounds. Depending on the root cause, the problem might be an easy fix, or you may have to factor in the cost to install or replace plumbing pipes.

If you suspect you have a complex problem or need new pipes, call an appliance repair company to assess the problem.

6. Vibrating Noises

Vibrating noises are typically caused by a water hammer or water pressure issue. As mentioned, a water hammer occurs when the flow of water is quickly shut off, sending a shock wave through the water, which can create a vibrating noise. 

Exceedingly high water pressure can also cause vibrating noises when the water is turned off. This consistent high pressure puts a lot of stress on the plumbing system. Installing a pressure-reducing valve can help with this issue.

If you don't think the vibrating noise is caused by a water hammer or high pressure, it might be caused by loose pipes. If pipes aren't properly secured, they can rattle against their encasements, creating a vibrating noise. 

7. Sounds Coming From Copper Water Pipes

Different problems can stem from different plumbing pipe types. For instance, as hot water runs through the copper pipes, you may hear mysterious noises, including clicking and knocking.

The sounds are from the expanding and contracting pipes, and while they may not sound pleasant, they are not typically a cause for concern. You can elect to slightly lower the water temperature or simply accept the noises. 

“The most common cause for copper pipes making a clicking sound is that as hot water runs through the pipe and the pipe heats up, it expands,” says Botelho. “If it is in contact with the studs inside your walls, the pipe will rub against the wood, making that clicking sound. If the pipe is accessible, installing a hanger or clip between the pipe and the wood will eliminate the noise.”

The Timing of the Noise May Indicate Its Cause

The timing of the noise can also help you identify the cause of noisy water pipes. For instance, if pipes are making noise when the water is turned off, you likely have a water hammer issue on your hands. 

If Your Pipes Make Noise When the Water Is Turned Off

When pipes make noise when the water is turned off, water hammers are often the cause, which happens when the water is abruptly turned off. You can install air chambers or water hammer arrestors to help fix the problem. 

Loose or poorly installed pipes can also vibrate or make noise when the water is quickly turned off, as can abrupt changes in water pressure due to an inconsistent water supply. 

If Your Pipes Make Noise When the Water Is Turned On

If your pipes make noise when the water is turned on, they might simply be dirty or clogged, which can create a loud water flow. Other potential problems include broken, partially closed, or worn-out valves. Loose pipes and washers can also lead to noisy water pipes when the water is turned on.

If Your Pipes Make Noise When the Water Is Running

Pipes making noise when the water is running can be due to obstructions, dirt, or clogs in the pipes. Similar to when the water is turned on, loose, partially closed, or improperly installed, valves can also cause your pipes to make noise when the water is running. Water pressure that's too high or low is also a common cause of noisy water pipes.

Tips to Stop Water Hammering or Banging Pipes Noise 

Water hammering or banging pipes don’t have to be a permanent nuisance in your home. There are a few methods to alleviate these noises:

• Adjust the water pressure: The first thing to check is your water pressure. You can purchase a water pressure gauge at a home improvement store. Attach the gauge to an exterior faucet and turn off all other faucets. The pressure should be between 40 and 80 psi. If it’s higher, you’ll need to lower the water pressure regulator. If you’re not sure how or don’t have one installed, talk to a plumber. 

• Drain the plumbing system: Your plumbing system has an air chamber inside the walls to alleviate the rush of water after you close a valve. However, this air chamber may have water in it, so you’ll need to drain the system. You can do this by shutting off the water main and then opening the highest faucet. Next, turn on the lowest faucet. Once this is done, turn your water main back on. 

• Check for loose pipes: If any pipes are not securely fastened to a nearby surface, the pipes will bang as water flows through. You can check easily accessible pipes in the basement or under cabinets, but you’ll need a plumber’s help for pipes located behind walls and under floors. 

• Insulate pipes: While you’re checking for loose pipes, it’s also a good time to insulate them. Foam insulation can help absorb shock waves that cause the banging noise.

• Install a water hammer arrestor: If you’re still dealing with banging noises, you can install a water hammer arrestor near the pipes causing the problem. The valve will very briefly close if there is a change in water pressure to prevent the banging when water rushes in.       

When to Call a Professional vs. DIY

While some pipes are in visible and accessible spots in your home, others are inside walls or ceilings. “While something like a humming or rattling pipe may seem like a simple fix, it can often take several hours for even a highly trained professional to pinpoint the source of the noise,” says Botelho.

Once you identify the likely cause of why your pipes are making noise, you can determine if you can fix the problem yourself or call a local plumbing repair professional to take on the job.