What Causes a Home To Have Noisy Pipes?

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Burst pipes in Lochwood, TX.

What Causes Noisy Pipes in a House?

You may be used to all the sounds your Lochwood, TX, home makes each day. You probably know which steps creak and what it sounds like when the house settles in the winter. However, when your home's water pipes start making new or unusual noises, this may indicate that one is about to suffer a pipe break. Since this can cause considerable flood damage, knowing why your pipes are making noise may help you prevent this issue.

Pipe Sediment

Over time, sediment can build up in your home's water pipes that might narrow the path the water flows through. This can be especially common in areas that have a high percentage of lime or calcium in their water. As the pipes narrow, this can cause a whistling sound whenever the water spigots are turned on. Replacing these affected sections may prevent you from having to fix a broken pipe later, when the water can no longer flow through it.

Loose Pipe Straps

If your home's pipes bang or clang when a sink or appliance is turned off, this may mean that the metal pipe straps that secure them to the wall are loose or failing. Since rattling can cause a pipe burst, this is a problem that should be remedied right away. Check interior and exterior pipes, inspect the straps, and replace any that are worn or broken to prevent an eventual pipe break.

Water Heater Needs Servicing

You may sometimes hear a rumbling or crackling sound coming up through your home's pipes. However, this sound is probably emanating from a water heater that has sediment buildup. Over time, sediment can form in the tank and trap some of the water, which boils and causes strange sounds. You can call in a qualified restoration company to flush out and clean the tank so that it runs quieter and with increased efficiency.

Your Lochwood, TX, home's water pipes probably make a variety of sounds you may be used to. However, some of these sounds could indicate an inevitable pipe break, and having them checked out may prevent a costly and damaging flood.