What Plumbing Noises Mean

There are several possible indicators of plumbing issues in the home, and one of the most useful in some cases will be noises. Sounds are often the first signs that something is wrong in the plumbing system, and they should be taken seriously.

At All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help whenever noise issues crop up. Here are a few of the most common sounds you might hear coming from your system, and what they might mean – plus whether they might require you to call for our plumbing services.

Dripping Noises

If you’re hearing a slow dripping noise but seeing water from the faucet, this is likely a very small issue of proper tightening. If you hear this same noise but do not see water dripping, though, this could be a major issue – you could have a hidden plumbing leak somewhere in your system.

If the sound can be heard even when no plumbing is in use, it’s likely a pipe located behind a wall. If the sound is only present when a drain is in use, it’s likely there’s a leak in the drain or in the waste pipes somewhere. In either case, you’ll want to call our experts for repairs right away.

Banging Sounds

Banging noises when you turn on the shower or sink faucets generally mean your water lines are shaking too much. Water moves quickly within pipes, and sometimes it can move so fast that when it hits a 90-degree turn within a pipe, it will shake the pipe. If there’s another pipe next to it, noises known as “water hammers” might result.

If this is an issue for you, you might have to install fasteners on your plumbing to prevent pipes from shaking. Our experts can examine your system and tell you if this is right for you.

Gurgling Toilet

Many people think a gurgling toilet means a clogged toilet, but this generally isn’t the case. Gurgling or hissing noises from the toilet actually tend to indicate that the flapper isn’t covering the valve opening, allowing water to continue to run. This can cause a major increase in your water bill. To fix this, inspect the flapper in the toilet tank and make sure it’s covering the valve opening. If not, replace the flapper.

For more on what plumbing sounds might mean in the home, or to learn about any of our other plumbing services, speak to the pros at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling today.