It’s the sound that every homeowner dreads. You lay down to fall asleep and hear the sounds of your pipes knocking in the walls or below your home. Before you start seeing dollar signs running through your mind as you dream about expensive repairs, find out the four common reasons why you might hear those sounds in Mesquite and why you should call Metroplex Leak & Line.
1. Loose Fits
A big reason you might hear knocking sounds is that your pipes have loose fits or connections. This is very common in older Mesquite homes as age and general wear and tear can cause the supply lines to pull away from the walls. Many Mesquite homes use aluminum connections that are not strong enough to support the weight of the pipes and the water you use. A broken pipe that hangs loosely from its supply can also make a knocking sound.
2. Air in the Pipes
If you only hear knocking sounds after you turn off your water and not when it’s running, you likely have air in the pipes. Air can get inside the pipes due to small leaks that you might not even notice. Some pipes can also transport water along with air into other areas of your home where it becomes stuck. When the water stops running, the air hits the pipes as it tries to escape and produces a knocking sound.
3. Water Hammer
Water pipes that make knocking sounds when you turn off the water can also relate to a water hammer. This is a common problem found in Mesquite homes built before the 1960s. The water hammer kicks on when you turn off the water and abruptly stop the flow. This sudden change causes the water in the pipe to hit the sides and ends.
4. Too Much Water Pressure
Having high water pressure is something that many people dream about having. As much as you like how quickly you can fill pots and pans and wash away dirt, the water pressure may relate to the noises you hear. You usually want a water pressure setting of no more than 80 psi. A higher level causes pressure to build up inside the line, which causes a loud knocking sound. You will usually only hear the sounds when the water is running.
Take Care of Knocking Noises
The knocking sounds that come from your pipes can drive you crazy. You can hear the sounds in the middle of a cool Mesquite night and when you try to relax at home. Those sounds often relate to loose connections and air in the pipes, as well as high water pressure and an old water hammer. Call Metroplex Leak & Line in Mesquite to take care of those knocking sounds for good.