You might occasionally notice strange noises coming from your pipes or plumbing fixtures. Some are relatively innocuous, while others require immediate attention. Below you’ll find an overview of the three most common sounds and what they may mean, so you can act quickly to fix the underlying issues.

3 Typical Household Plumbing Noises & Their Causes

1. Vibrating Pipes

If you hear vibrations or humming when your water’s running, it could be due to a loose pipe. If you have an access panel, you may be able to identify the wobbly section and secure it with pipe clips. If not, you may need a professional to remove drywall, evaluate your plumbing, and correct the issue. Alternatively, it could be due to excess water pressure or faulty valves around your fixtures causing your water to hammer, or stop abruptly, against your pipes. Both issues will require expert help. 

2. Squealing Faucets

If you notice a high-pitched squeal when you turn the water on from your kitchen or bathroom faucet, it’s most likely due to a loose washer within the unit. Simply tightening the washer should eliminate the problem. However, if that doesn’t work, it may be due to pipes that are incorrectly sized or scale buildup constricting the inside of your pipes. These issues may require pipe replacement, which is a much more involved process. 

3. Gurgling Toilets

If you hear a gurgling or bubbling sound when you flush the toilet, it’s because there’s air in your pipes. Sometimes, this can be removed by letting all your faucets run until the water stops spitting and flows normally. If this doesn’t work, you may have a leak in your lines that needs to be addressed by a plumber right away.

If you need a professional to address any of these sounds, call Miller Plumbing. Based in Rush, NY, this company serves customers throughout Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario counties. They offer an array of plumbing services from faucet repair to sewer line cleaning. Celebrating 50 years in business, they proudly bring experience and a reputation for excellence to every job. Call (585) 533-1404 or contact the team online to inquire about service.