Have you ever turned off a faucet and heard a loud banging or knocking sound in your walls? This alarming noise is more than just an annoyance: it’s often a sign of a common plumbing issue known as water hammer. If your pipes are making strange noises, it’s important not to ignore them. Acting quickly can prevent more serious plumbing problems down the road.
Many things in your home make noise. In fact, if you put on noise-canceling headphones, you might be shocked at just how “loud” the silence seems. You’re accustomed to hearing the heat or AC, the water heater or dishwasher, laundry in the washer or dryer, or just the sounds of the house settling or creaking. Most of this noise is normal and fine. But noises can also signal that there’s a problem.
Just like with your car, many of the systems in your home make noises during regular operation, but make different noises that indicate that something is wrong. Whether it’s your car or your air conditioner, if it’s clunking or banging, you’ve got a problem. Your home’s plumbing can make odd noises, too. What plumbing sounds mean that it’s time to get help from a plumber? Here’s a list for you.