Your plumbing system should run quietly in the background—reliably doing its job without much attention. So when your pipes start hissing, banging, or gurgling, it’s worth paying attention. While some sounds are harmless, others can point to hidden plumbing issues that may lead to costly repairs if ignored.
If you’re hearing strange noises in your home’s plumbing system, especially in older homes across Gresham, Clackamas, or the greater Portland area, it’s time to listen closely. In this post, we’ll walk through common pipe sounds, what they mean, and when to call in a pro.
Why Pipes Make Noise in the First Place
Water flows through your plumbing system under pressure, and as it moves through pipes, valves, and appliances, friction and sudden changes in direction or speed can cause vibrations. Over time, those small movements can shake loose mounting brackets, wear out joints, and create air pockets—all of which contribute to those weird sounds echoing through your walls.
Understanding what causes each type of noise can help you distinguish between what’s normal and what needs a professional’s attention.
5 Common Pipe Noises—and What They Mean
- Banging or “Water Hammer”
A loud bang after turning off a faucet is likely caused by water hammer. This happens when a sudden stop in water flow sends shockwaves through the pipes. It’s common in homes with older plumbing or faulty air chambers.
Why it matters: Repeated water hammer can damage pipes and loosen fittings over time.
- Whistling or Screeching
High-pitched sounds usually indicate a worn-out valve or a partially closed shut-off. Faucets, toilet fill valves, and showerheads can all be culprits.
Why it matters: These parts are often inexpensive to fix, but ignoring the sound could lead to pressure issues or a full breakdown later.
- Gurgling
If you hear gurgling when water drains from a sink or tub, it likely means there’s a blockage or poor venting in the drain system.
Why it matters: Blocked vents or drains can lead to slow drainage, sewer gas backup, or clogs deep in your system.
- Rattling or Vibrating
Pipes that rattle behind walls are often unsecured or poorly insulated. This can worsen over time as pipes shift with water flow and seasonal temperature changes.
Why it matters: If left unchecked, unsecured pipes can eventually leak at joints and cause water damage behind walls.
- Dripping Sounds (Even When Water’s Off)
This may be the most serious sound of all. If you hear dripping but all fixtures are off, you might have a leak inside a wall or ceiling.
Why it matters: Hidden leaks can cause mold, rot, and structural damage long before you see visible signs.
When to Call a Plumber
Not every noise signals an emergency, but if you’re noticing a pattern—or the sound is getting worse—it’s time to take action. At Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing tricky plumbing symptoms. Whether it’s pressure issues, faulty valves, or a developing leak, our trained technicians can pinpoint the cause and recommend the most efficient fix.
We use sound detection tools and pipe inspection cameras to locate problems behind walls and under floors without invasive demolition.
Protect Your Home with Preventive Maintenance
If your plumbing system is over 15 years old, unusual noises may be the first warning sign that it’s time for an inspection. Routine maintenance—including water pressure testing, valve replacements, and securing exposed pipes—can extend your plumbing system’s life and prevent major disruptions down the line.
Let our team help you quiet the noise and protect your investment.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Clackamas, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is your local expert for dependable service and fair pricing. From pipe repairs to full system evaluations, we’ve got your home covered.
Contact us today to schedule your inspection or request a quote.
