Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Plumbing Noises’

Plumbing Tip : Common Causes of Plumbing Noises

Monday, July 2nd, 2012

With something as important as your Irvine plumbing system, you want to be sure that everything is working correctly and effectively. Many people, though, will ignore the signs that something is wrong as long as the water flows when it is supposed to. Not only are noises from your plumbing annoying, they are also indicators that there is a problem somewhere in your system. Here are some common noises and the fixes that may be needed to keep your plumbing quiet.

Gurgling Sounds from Drains

This is such a common problem that people may not even consider it one. If your drains are gurgling or making sucking sounds chances are that there is some kind of blockage in the drainpipe. The obstruction is forcing the water to squeeze past it, resulting in the gurgle. Hire an Irvine plumber to snake out your drain. You’ll be surprised at how quiet draining your sink or tub can be.

Screeching or Squeaking Sounds

More often than not this sort of noise is the result of rusty or ill-fitting parts. If you have an irregular washer, for instance, it can restrict the flow of water through the pipe, and the force of the water pushing past the washer can result in the screech. Call in a plumber to pinpoint the location of the problem; often all it will take to repair is replacing a part.

Banging Sounds

If your pipes are banging when you have the water on, chances are that it is in fact an external problem. If your pipe connections are loose or improperly secured then your pipes have enough room to move around. The banging is the result of their hitting fixtures. Have a plumber inspect your system while turning the water on and off. All that may be required after locating the source of the banging is the tightening of some fixtures.

Water Hammering

Water hammering is the term for the banging in your water pipes when you turn the water off, not on. It is the result of an abrupt stop in the flow of the water in your pipes, like when you quickly turn off the water. Pressure builds behind the remaining water in the pipes and causes the hammering. If enough pressure builds, this situation can easily become a more serious problem. Call a plumber if you are experiencing water hammering.

These are just a few of the problems that are indicated by noise in your plumbing system. There are many other possible issues, and some can be quite serious. Call Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today if you have any concerns with your Irvine plumbing.

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