The four most common causes of pipes making noise when water is turned on, toilets are flushed, and water is drained include pressure issues, the air in pipes, clogs or obstructions, and loose components.
Squeaking or whistling noisy pipes indicate something is wrong with the flow of water through the pipes. There could be an obstruction in the plumbing line. There could be a defective washer or aerator if the sound is coming from a faucet. Your shut-off valve may be partly closed.
Air in the Pipes: Trapped air can create noise and rattling. This can sometimes be resolved by bleeding the plumbing system. Pipe Expansion and Contraction: Changes in temperature can cause pipes to expand and contract, leading to noise. Ensuring pipes have enough room to move can help reduce this issue.
Pipes that are loosely attached can vibrate due to water pressure and cause knocking noises. You can reduce noise by securing the pipes with straps or tightening loose straps, or by wrapping pipes with insulation.
One of the earliest signs of breaks or leaks is unusual noise. Strange noises like trickling, gurgling, or hissing can hint at a leak. The volume of the sound typically indicates the severity of the problem, but not always. Volume can also increase or decrease depending on the diameter of the affected pipe.
Unexplained Water Pools and Dampness
One of the most obvious signs of a burst pipe is the presence of water where it shouldn't be. If you notice puddles forming under sinks, near water pipes, or along walls, it's likely a sign of a leaking or burst pipe. Water stains on ceilings and walls are also telltale signs.
If you hear a noise like banging, clanging, knocking, or vibration, or some combination of sounds, you're probably hearing hydraulic shock, aka water hammer. Water hammer occurs when pressure changes rapidly inside a pipe, causing the water to literally “hammer” into the pipe wall and make a noise.
Excessive or irregular water sounds may indicate potential issues within your plumbing system. Gurgling, hissing, or constant water flow noises when no fixtures are in use could be a sign of a leak, water pressure problems, or issues with the water supply line.
A water hammer arrestor costs from $15 to $50. They're available online, at home centers, and in hardware stores. Most of the cost of a water hammer arrestor installation is in the labor. Calling in a pro will typically run $250 – $500.
Loud banging sounds can be caused from water pipes moving due to much water pressure in the plumbing system as the water runs through, causing high pressure/ PSI (pounds per square inch), which can lead to other plumbing problems and issues with your water lines.
If your pressure is higher or lower, then you'll need to install, repair, or adjust your pressure regulator to comply. Adjusting your regulator is easy, as long as it's working properly. Simply tighten the screw down clockwise to increase pressure and counter-clockwise to decrease pressure.
Air in water pipes will sound like a hiss or pop. Alternatively, the trapped air can cause loud gurgling and prolonged vibrating noises. Other sounds are loud noises and bangs emanating from the pipes; this clearly indicates air traveling in the pipes.
The four most common causes of pipes making noise when water is turned on, toilets are flushed, and water is drained include pressure issues, the air in pipes, clogs or obstructions, and loose components.
Average Flat Rate
Some plumbing jobs are billed at a flat rate. As of 2025, the average plumber rates for larger repairs are typically between $500 to $800, while smaller jobs like repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, or bathtubs typically range from $125 to $350.
No, a sound is of course not dangerous—but what it represents can definitely have a heavy negative influence on your pipes. The effect of the shockwaves can damage the pipes and knock them loose, and also damage taps, faucets, and appliances. Enough force from water hammer can even cause pipes to burst.
You can fix the problem by tightening the screws holding loose pipe straps. Additional straps can be added to improve stability. Pipe straps are usually made of thin metal or plastic, while padded types are available to reduce vibration.
But some plumbing issues need a pro's touch. If your pipes are banging like a drum and you're not sure how to fix it, call in the experts. Pros can quickly find the cause, whether it's high water pressure, fast valve closures, or loose pipes.
One of the most common noises is the sharp, slamming “machine gun” noise that indicates valve problems. If this rattle grows fast enough it can also cause reverberating, foghorn-like sounds.
The sound of running water with no apparent source can often be traced back to faulty plumbing. Start by examining all valves, faucets, and toilets for signs of damage or malfunctioning. Check each valve and connection point for any indications of corrosion or deterioration.
Can noisy pipes burst? Yes. This is especially true if the noise is caused by high water pressure or loose pipes. If you hear your water pipes making noise, it is important to deal with that immediately.
Your pipes are at risk of freezing any time temperatures drop below 32°F. However, it's much more common for pipes to freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F.