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Pipes That Go Bump in the Night

by | Mar 30, 2020 | Blog

man plugging his ears because of noisy pipes

No matter the age of your home, you’ve likely heard that bump in the night. Other posts discuss your home settling, but sometimes those noises are coming from pipes in your plumbing system. It could be described as banging, shrieking, whistling, or even hissing. Is there a monster in your child’s closet? It’s more likely that plumbing is the problem. While these noises are normal, they could indicate a problem. Let’s investigate.

WHISTLING DIXIE

Airflow is the most common reason for noisy pipes. If the flow of air is too strong, it can cause loud whistling or hissing noises. This is especially true when the air is being forced through a pipe and mixed with water. The noises start when a faucet is turned on or a toilet is flushed. Though it can be annoying, this is not typically a serious problem.

ICE COLD

Air in your pipes can be a problem in cold weather. If the temperature drops below freezing (a hard-freeze, and yes, this can happen in Texas) the water in your pipes will freeze. The frozen water can trap air in the pipes. It’s not the ice itself that causes pipes to burst; it’s those air pockets that build up pressure causing the pipes to eventually crack. You can fight the freeze by fitting your pipes with insulation. In extreme cold, leave your faucets dripping which will help prevent freezing.

SOME LIKE IT HOT

Sometimes the sounds you hear will change depending on whether you’re running hot or cold water. Hot water can cause loud creaking noises, especially in copper pipes. The hot water causes the copper to expand and contract. That can cause stress on the joints and braces which lead to loud noises. These aren’t particularly serious, but the noise can be annoying.

KEEP QUIET

Here are a few tips to help keep it quiet:

  1. Identify the source of the noise.
  2. Cut a hole in the wall to access the pipe.
  3. Use plastic braces instead of metal.
  4. Install foam to protect the pipe from anything that it could rub against and make noise.
  5. Give us a call! Trenchless Replacement Specialists has solutions for all your pipe repair and plumbing needs. You can make an appointment by calling 432-580-7693.