Why Are My Water Pipes Knocking?
BANG! CLANG! THUNK! CLUNK!
That banging noise, persistent rattling, or rhythmic vibration coming from your water pipes is a clear sign that you have underlying plumbing issues that need to be properly addressed.
Let’s identify what could be causing your pipes to make a knocking noise when the water is turned on or turned off. Then we’ll explore your options to fixing it.
If this is an emergency and you need same-day assistance, call CJ Plumbing & Heating at 847-491-9828.
What Causes Pipes to Knock?
Something is causing the water in your pipes to move in such a way that it sounds like banging or knocking.
Here are the common culprits for noisy water pipes:
Suspect #1: Water Hammer
What is a water hammer? It’s a plumbing occurrence when the flow of water in your pipes abruptly stops or changes direction.
For example, you finish washing your hands and you turn off the faucet. All of that moving water has to stop. This water hammering, or sudden shockwave, can create that knocking noise, which can also damage your pipes and lead to leakage.
Suspect #2: Loose Pipes
Loosened pipes are expected due to wear and tear, but they can also be found in properties that are older or didn’t have proper installation in the first place.
They can also be caused by constantly shifting between hot and cold extremes. This repeated expansion and contraction from temperature changes can gradually loosen their fittings.
Suspect #3: High Water Pressure
If your pipes are making noise when the water is turned on, then high water pressure is a likely culprit.
Excessively high water pressure forcefully make their way down the pipes, creating a shockwave that can make banging noises as well as damage or break your pipes.
Suspect #4: Trapped Air
Did you recently repair or finish a new pipe installation? Did you have to temporarily shut off your water supply?
It’s common for air to enter into your pipes, creating air pockets and potential damage to your fixtures. Trapped air can also cause your faucet water to sputter out, lead to corrosion, and drive up your utility bill due to increased usage.
Suspect #5: Faulty Valves
Faulty valves don’t open or close smoothly, so it can create uneven water flow and turbulence in your pipes. This can potentially lead to pressure surges, similar to water hammering.
Wear and tear, rust, corrosion, debris, sediment, and thermal stress can all lead to defective and problematic water valves.
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How to Stop Pipes from Knocking
If you’re dealing with a water hammer, then you need to install a water hammer arrestor to absorb the shockwave. You can find brands like Sioux Chief, Watts, SharkBite, or Zurn at retailers like Ace Hardware, Lowes, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
If you’re dealing with loose pipes, securely fasten them with new brackets or clamps. Measure the outer diameter of your pipes with a measuring tape or caliper, so that you can have the correct size. Also, make sure to consider the material type such as PVC, steel, or copper.
If you’re dealing with high water pressure or faulty valves, install a water pressure reducing valve. Make sure to bring the PSI (pounds per square inch) below 60, so that you don’t find yourself in this situation again anytime soon.
If you’re dealing with trapped air in your water pipes, drain your plumbing system. Start by turning off the water supply, opening all the faucets, and letting the water drain out. Then one by one, slowly turn the water back on. Start with the faucet that’s physically located on the lowest level of your house. This could be the main floor or a basement.
Fix Knocking Pipes with CJ Plumbing & Heating
We’re an award-winning, 3rd-generation plumbing company that serves homeowners and businesses across Chicagoland. Pipe repair and installation, drain cleaning, water leaks, sump pumps, and more.
For real peace of mind, request a free estimate from CJ Plumbing & Heating.
