Why do pipes make noise when washing machine fills?

Author: Leanna Becker  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 24, 2025

A common cause of water hammer can be fast-acting valves on appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers. These valves suddenly stop the water that is moving along the pipes. A shockwave results and this causes the pipes to shudder, causing the banging. The banging gets worse as the valves are worn.

Why do pipes make noise when the washer is filling up?

That's called ``water hammer'' and occurs when the quick-closing valve on your washing machine shuts off so fast the water in the pipe slams against the stop and the whole pipe shakes. To fix, purchase and install some inline water hammer arrestors to the hoses on your washer and your pipes will rattle no more.

How to stop pipes banging when washing machine fills?

Get a shock arrestor fitted either on cold inlet to boiler, or close to where the noise is coming from, usually washing machines due to their harsh slamming shut valves. Make sure it's a rechargeable one, the cheap ones don't have a shrader valve on them to pump back up.

Why does my washing machine make a noise when I fill it with water?

Banging noises in your washing machine are usually due to water hammer, high water pressure, or loose pipes. It's a good idea to check those issues to keep things running smoothly!

How to get rid of water hammer in pipes?

To do this, shut off your home's main water valve, then open the highest faucet in your home. Next, turn on the lowest faucet in your home and keep it on until all water has drained. Finally, reopen the main water valve to refill your pipes.

Why is My Plumbing Making Noise? - Real Plumber Real Answers

Is a water hammer a serious problem?

Water hammer can cause serious damage to pipelines, pipe joins gaskets, and all other components of the system like flow meters and pressure gauges. On contact, these pressure spikes can easily exceed five to ten times the working pressure of the system, placing a tremendous amount of stress on the system.

How much does it cost to fix a water hammer problem?

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.

Can a washing machine cause a water hammer?

A common cause of water hammer can be fast-acting valves on appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers. These valves suddenly stop the water that is moving along the pipes. A shockwave results and this causes the pipes to shudder, causing the banging. The banging gets worse as the valves are worn.

Why is my washing machine pipe gurgling?

If the pipe that your washing machine and kitchen sink share for drainage is partially blocked, it can struggle to handle the volume of water from the washing machine. This can cause water to back up and pull air through the sink drain, creating a gurgling sound.

Is it safe to use a noisy washing machine?

Although if the wire is short and not doing damage to the drum, and you can live with the noise then you can leave it. Just make sure you carry out regular inspections. Always call a qualified Repair Aid washing machine engineer when work on your electric appliance is needed.

Can a water hammer go away on its own?

Water hammer rarely goes away on its own; it's a serious plumbing problem you should address. Pipes can sustain damage from repeated impact, resulting in leaks or burst pipes. Fixtures like faucets and valves can also be affected by water hammer stress, leading to wear and tear or even failure over time.

How to remove air from water pipes?

Use a Drain Pump: A drain pump extracts both air and water from the system to clear the pipes. Open and Close Valves: Sequentially opening and closing valves at different points can help purge air from the system. Employ a Filling Device: A filling device pumps fluid into the system, helping to expel trapped air.

Can a plumber fix banging pipes?

What can be done to stop the banging noise? An experienced plumber or heating engineer will be able to diagnose the cause. They'll make subsequent changes to the plumbing system to stop the problem. Steps can be taken to slow the flow of water where the pressure build-up is occurring.

How to stop washing machine pipes from banging?

Most banging pipes can be fixed or prevented by quickly assessing your plumbing, securing any loose pipes, and installing a hammer arrestor. Protect your plumbing appliances and fixtures from the effects of water hammer and help extend the life of your valves.

What are the symptoms of a water hammer?

Also called hydraulic shock, the signs of water hammer include a loud thumping or “hammering” noise from pipes carrying fluid and moderate- to heavy vibrations along the pipe system. Its impact can range from mild or undetectable vibrations to severe and very disruptive pressure shocks.

How do you get air out of washing machine pipes?

To remove air from your pipes, open all the faucets in your home connected to your water mains, including your dishwasher and washing machine. You don't need to open the faucets completely. Opening them halfway is enough.

Why do my pipes make noise when the washer is filling up?

That rattling sound is called water hammer, and Consumer Reports has a fix. Fast-closing washer valves cause water hammer. And when water hammer gets bad, it can actually damage your washing machine's pipes or the fixtures attached to the pipes.

How do I unblock my washing machine pipe?

A plunger can be an effective tool to unblock a washing machine drain.
  1. Fill the washing machine with enough water to cover the plunger.
  2. Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly.
  3. Pull up quickly to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
  4. Repeat this process a few times until the water starts to drain.

How do I stop my water pipes from gurgling?

Start by using a plunger to try and clear any basic blockages. This can often solve simple clogs. If that doesn't work, the next step is to check the P-trap under the sink. Cleaning out the P-trap can often remove debris that causes clogging.

Why does my washing machine make a loud sound when filling?

This noise may occur while the Washer is filling. It may be caused by too much water pressure. Try adjusting the hot and cold water valves on the water supply to the Washer. If the noise diminishes after adjusting the valves, the squealing or whistling is likely caused by the pressure of the water supply to your home.

What happens if you don't fix water hammer?

Left untreated, water hammer can cause significant damage by destroying pipework, the home's plumbing system, and appliances connected to the pipes.

Why do my pipes make a noise when I turn on the water?

Noisy pipes in the form of rattling, whistling or squealing are often a result of loose fasteners and hardware, such as a loose washer. Excessive wear may result in worn washers and loose pipes. As water flows through these, they move and come in contact with components around them.

Will water hammer go away on its own?

A water hammer may just sound like knocking pipes, but the sound is just a signifier of the damage happening within the system. If you notice the sound, do not carry on as if it will go away on its own, chances are it won't. Instead, check out the pipe system and your pressure tank for damage or water hammer signs.

Is a water hammer an emergency?

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.

Previous article
What baseboard is in style in 2024?
Next article
How to make bats go away?