These Plumbing Issues Go Bump in the Night
The time is here for scary movies, Halloween candy, and frightening costumes. The fall decorations are out, pumpkins adorn doorsteps, and the leaves are changing. However, some things can interrupt the fun fall festivities. These plumbing issues can cause a fright when they happen in the home, and they can make homeowners think that they have a haunted house instead of a plumbing issue. But there’s no need to call a ghost hunter. Instead, those who experience issues like humming, squealing, or knocking in the walls should look to the plumbing system to fix the issues.
Haunted Humming in the Home
Humming is an issue that can catch a lot of homeowners off guard. Not only can humming frighten homeowners, but when that initial scare is over, it remains an annoyingly persistent issue. Luckily, this usually doesn’t mean that anything is seriously wrong. Most of the time, humming is due to high water pressure. When the water pressure in the home is too high, it can cause vibration in the pipes, which causes humming sounds. A professional plumber can check the water pressure and ensure it’s in the normal range of 40 to 60 psi.
But pipes aren’t the only things that can cause humming. Toilets can cause a humming sound as well. This often happens when the toilet is flushed, and the toilet has an old fill valve that hums. Occasionally, it can be the toilet’s flapper, but it’s most often the fill valve or the pipes.
Is That the Pipes Squealing or the Wind?
Sometimes the scariest plumbing sound is a squealing or screaming sound coming from behind the walls. Like humming, there are a few possible reasons for squealing pipes. Water pressure is often to blame, as is the case with humming pipes. When the water pressure is too high, it can cause cavitation. This happens when the flow of water goes from a large pipe into a smaller pipe. The change in pressure can cause a squealing sound.
But this isn’t the only cause of squealing. Sometimes a worn washer can also cause this issue. Or, in some cases, a new valve can cause this issue as well. Getting to the bottom of the problem often requires a professional plumber.
Spooky Water Hammer
Last but certainly not least is the spooky banging sound that’s known as water hammer. This is exactly what it sounds like: water causing a hammering noise. This banging sound happens when a water valve is shut, changing the pressure in the pipes, which causes the pipe to shake, banging against the walls.
Not only is this sound frightening, but it can also cause further issues in the home. It can wear pipes down and cause damage. Plus, it is often indicative of water pressure issues that need to be addressed to maintain a healthy plumbing system. Contacting a plumber is the best way to deal with water hammer or any of these other spooky plumbing problems this fall!
About Oak Plumbing
Oak Plumbing has been proud to serve Benicia, CA since 2016. With over 20 years of combined experience, the plumbing technicians at Oak Plumbing provide excellent service and superb workmanship. They also offer personalized options and upfront pricing on every job. Call now for plumbing service!