Who isn’t familiar with the frustrating sounds of knocking and humming from the pipes in their home, spoiling their sleep in the middle of the night? At first, you may want to stay in your warm bed and ignore the persistent noise, but inevitably, the growing racket compels you to wake up.

These annoying sounds, caused by faulty pipes and other unexpected plumbing defects, can be immensely irritating. They are a clear indication that your pipes need urgent repairs, which may involve pipe relining costs.

Upon closely examining the problem, you might discover significant water leakage from the pipes without being able to locate the leaks. However, it’s not always due to large leaks; the dripping water could result from condensation issues or loose fittings on the drain pipes.

Another major concern could be the ‘knocking’ in your pipes, which is often caused by inconsistent water pressure in the main pipes supplying water to your home. Maintaining the correct pressure is essential, as it ensures consistent water flow between pipes and faucets.

Similarly, many other small yet highly annoying faults, like pipe bursts during freezing winters, can occur.

Fortunately, there are simple solutions to address these issues, some of which don’t even require specialized plumbing expertise. So, what problems are your pipes trying to highlight? Let’s discuss some straightforward solutions to these nuisances.

Banging or Knocking

The primary cause of banging is usually fluctuating water pressure and flow. This can be due to trapped air bubbles or water hammering.

Water hammering occurs when a faucet or valve is abruptly shut off. From a physics perspective, the rushing water carries high momentum, and when the outlet is suddenly closed, the momentum stops abruptly, causing loud banging noises.

This phenomenon can trigger a series of bangs throughout the pipes, potentially causing damage.

To fix this issue:

  • Shut off the main valve.
  • Open all the faucets in your home to flush out the water lines completely.
  • Once the lines are empty, turn the main valve back on slowly, allowing water to fill the air chambers in the pipes.

If persistent leaks or knocking noises remain unresolved despite these remedies, it may be time to explore professional solutions like pipe relining. This method is particularly effective in repairing cracks and leaks without replacing entire pipelines.

Humming

Humming noises occur when water pressure in the pipes is excessively high, causing vibrations.

This is particularly common in homes that pump water directly from wells. It’s recommended to keep the water pressure under 50 pounds per square inch (PSI). Pressure higher than this can damage pipes and should be managed promptly.

To prevent further damage:

  • Install a water pressure gauge near the main valve to monitor pressure levels.
  • Ensure the pressure stays within 40–80 PSI.

Gurgling

Gurgling noises indicate clogged pipes struggling to drain water.

This issue usually arises due to debris, grease, or solid particles blocking the flow. To address this, run hot water through the pipes after each use. Pour baking soda into the drain, followed by hot water, to clear clogs and improve odor.

Rattling

Pipes suspended improperly or loosely fastened can rattle when water rushes through them.

Such hanging pipes are prone to unexpected damage. To eliminate rattling, inspect exposed plumbing pipes to ensure they are securely fastened and/or use strong straps to secure any loose sections.

If the problem persists, consult a professional plumber.

Squealing or Whistling

Squealing or whistling noises often occur due to malfunctioning faucets or valves. Sediment buildup or obstruction in pipes can block water flow and create unwanted pressure, leading to noise. Solutions include:

  • Clearing blockages with basic tools and DIY techniques.
  • Replacing faulty faucets or valves, if necessary.

For persistent issues, hire a professional plumber.

Sweating

Pipe sweating happens when cold water inside the pipe causes condensation due to warmer surrounding air.

This is common in summer or heated indoor environments during winter. To resolve this, thoroughly dry the pipe and wrap it with self-adhesive insulation tape. Ensure an airtight seal to prevent further condensation.

Final Word

Small plumbing issues can lead to significant damage and prolonged water supply disruptions. With basic knowledge of these problems and simple remedies, you can avoid severe damage. However, don’t let problems linger; consult a professional plumber promptly if needed.