Noises From Your Bathroom Wall: What They Mean & What To Do

Have you ever been startled by odd noises coming from your home’s plumbing? Depending on the type of sound, they can range from mildly annoying to highly concerning. At Aztec Plumbing & Drains, we know that unexpected sounds can signal underlying issues in your plumbing system. Our team of plumbers has put together this guide to common plumbing noises, what they mean, and what to do about them.

Five Common Sounds & Their Causes

Hearing noises in your bathroom walls can be alarming. They can also be signs that something is not quite right with the plumbing in your home. Here are five common sounds and their causes:

1. Whistling or Squealing

This sound often happens when water rushes past a constriction or through a worn valve. Common causes include slightly closed shutoff valves or old faucets that need new washers or cartridges.

2. Gurgling

A gurgling sound typically means there is a blockage in the drain. It happens as water struggles to pass through and traps air bubbles. Eventually, the bubbles burst as they reach the drain opening. This issue is most noticeable in sinks and toilets.

3. Banging or Hammering

Also known as water hammer, this loud banging noise occurs when fast-closing valves shut off water flow suddenly, causing a shock wave through the pipes. This can be due to high water pressure or the absence of air chambers to balance shifting water.

4. Rattling

Loose pipes often cause rattling sounds as water flows through them. This happens because the pipes may not be securely fastened to the structure’s framing, leading to movement and noise.

5. Humming

High water pressure is the usual suspect for a humming noise in your plumbing. As pressure builds within the pipes, it can cause them to vibrate and hum, especially when water is being used.

How To Fix Strange Plumbing Sounds

While it can be tempting to ignore minor sounds from your plumbing system, we don’t recommend this. These sounds point to underlying problems, so they need to be addressed. Fortunately, there are fixes to strange plumbing noises:

• Adjust valves and replace parts: Whistling or squealing caused by valve issues can be corrected by fully opening valves or replacing old parts in faucets.
• Clear blockages: Gurgling sounds can be eliminated by clearing blockages in drains, often using a plunger or a plumber’s snake.
• Install water hammer arrestors: To stop banging noises, installing water hammer arrestors at quick-closing valves and reducing the water pressure can help.
• Secure loose pipes: Tightening brackets and adding cushioning clamps can reduce rattling by securing loose pipes.
• Adjust water pressure: If your plumbing is humming, checking and adjusting the water pressure with a pressure regulator can provide relief.

Choose Aztec for Expert Plumbing Repairs

If your bathroom plumbing is making strange sounds, it’s time to call Aztec Plumbing & Drains. We offer comprehensive plumbing repair services. With our extensive experience and commitment to quality service, we offer effective, cost-efficient solutions for any plumbing issue. Our upfront pricing and 24/7 availability mean we’re always ready to help, ensuring peace of mind and satisfaction with every job.

Don’t let noisy pipes disrupt your home comfort. Let the most trusted name under the sun help you get rid of the noises in your bathroom wall.

For expert plumbing services, count on Aztec Plumbing. Schedule plumbing services by calling our team today.

Learn More in Our Plumbing Series:

• Most Common Plumbing Problems
• Plumbing Maintenance Tips
• When Is It Time to Replace Plumbing Fixtures
• Should I Get a Plumbing Inspection
• Prepare Plumbing for Vacation
• When Is a Plumbing Permit Required
• Hiring an Unlicensed Plumber
• DIY Plumbing Advice
• Winter Plumbing Tips