Pipes can make noise for many reasons, from loose clamps to too high water pressure. Different types of noises mean different causes, so it is important to correctly identify the cause of the problem depending on how your pipes squeak, knock, or rattle. It is possible to eliminate noise in pipes by installing additional anchor brackets, shock-absorbing pads or adjusting the pressure in the system.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Fixing knocking or rattling pipes
Step 1. Check all pipe attachment points
Over time, old clamps weaken and need to be retightened or replaced. Pipes are usually attached to timber floor joists using metal clamps.
If these clamps are loose, replace them, or add more clamps if the pipes move easily. Install clamps every 1.8 - 2.4 m (6-8 ft) on horizontal pipes, and every 2.4 - 3 m (8-10 ft) on vertical pipes
Step 2. Install spacers to prevent knocking or rattling sounds
- Wrap a piece of rubber around the pipe and secure this section to the beam with a metal clamp. If you don't have pipe insulation foam, a piece of rubber tube or garden hose will work fine. Do this every 1.2 m (4 feet) along the length of the pipe.
- Leave room for the pipe or clamp to expand. This is especially important when insulating plastic pipes.
- Avoid using galvanized clamps on copper pipes. Even a small movement of the pipe will create a lot of noise, as the metal elements will rub against each other.
Method 2 of 4: Checking for Lack of Air
Step 1. Check the air chambers behind the plumbing for water fullness
Air chambers are made to mitigate the opening and closing moments of the water. If the chambers are full of water, you will hear a knocking sound when you turn your taps.
Step 2. Shut off the main water supply to the house
Step 3. Drain the water from the system by opening all the taps in the house
Step 4. Close all taps before turning on the water supply
This should restore the airbags, thereby eliminating the noise.
Method 3 of 4: Diagnosing popping noises
Step 1. Buy a water pressure gauge from your local hardware or hardware store
They are inexpensive.
Step 2. Connect a pressure gauge to an adjustable valve
He usually comes out of the wall. Open the tap and start reading the information from the pressure gauge, which is usually given in pascals (Pa) or pounds per square inch (imperial system).
Step 3. Call a plumber to replace the pressure regulator if the pressure exceeds the 551.6 kPa (80 psi) mark
Method 4 of 4: Eliminate Squeaky Pipes
Step 1. If you hear a squeak, check the hot water pipes
Hot water pipes expand and rub against the collars of the anchors holding them as hot water flows through them. Friction can cause a squeaky sound when hot water is turned on or not.
