The pipes and plumbing fixtures in your home make it possible to shower, wash dishes and flush the toilet. As long as everything is working correctly, you have nothing to worry about. However, if you begin hearing weird noises, you may start to feel anxious. Is that sound harmless, or does it warrant calling a Puget Sound plumber? Here’s how to tell.
Toilet Noises
- Bubbling or gurgling: If the toilet releases air bubbles when you turn on a faucet, this could indicate a partially blocked drain or clogged plumbing vent. Don’t ignore this problem or it might lead to a sewer backup.
- Phantom flushing: Does the toilet run briefly even after no one has touched the handle? Phantom flushing means a leak has formed between the tank and bowl. All you need to do is replace the flapper, a simple DIY task.
- Crashing or whooshing flush: If you’re accustomed to using gravity activation toilets, you could be startled by the dramatic crash and fast flow of water when you flush a pressure-assisted toilet. However, this sound is completely normal.
Water Heater Noises
- Rumbling, cracking or popping: If you hear these noises while the water heater is operating, it could mean mineral deposits have built up on the bottom of the tank. To prevent this, flush the water heater once a year. Once too much sediment accumulates, it could spell the end of your water heater’s life.
- Sizzling or hissing: This sound likely means water is dripping onto the gas burner. If the water is from condensation, it’s harmless. However, if a leak has formed, your tank could be failing. Have a plumber check it out to diagnose the problem.
- Clicking or tapping: These sounds indicate normal thermal expansion, as long as they only happen occasionally.
Sump Pump Noises
- Noisy motor: While this is probably harmless, it means the system is old and may fail soon. Consider replacing it.
- Clanging: You’re most likely hearing the pipe hitting the pump’s basin when water is discharged through the system. Wrap insulation around the pipe to dampen the noise.
- Gurgling or slurping: It’s common to hear this sound when water moves through the sump pump. A spring-loaded replacement valve may eliminate it.
Noises Coming from the Pipes
- Dripping: A small pipe leak may cause a mysterious dripping sound. Call a plumber for help tracking it down.
- Hammering: A loud bang when a faucet or other fixture shuts off could indicate water hammer. High-velocity water flow and high water pressure are common causes of this. Have the problem repaired before it damages your pipes or plumbing
- Whistling: High flow rate and water pressure can also cause whistling in the pipes. This isn’t dangerous, but it’s certainly
For expert help diagnosing and repairing weird noises from your plumbing system, count on Puget Sound Plumbing & Heating. Contact us today at (206) 350-0079 to schedule an appointment or request 24-hour emergency services.