How to Stop Water Pipes From Humming
A humming noise in water pipes can be caused by pipes that are too small, water pressure changes when faucets are in use, a problem with the toilet tank refilling, worn washers or a number of other reasons. While many plumbing repairs require the skill of a professional plumber, there are some basic repairs that you can do yourself. But the first step in troubleshooting is identifying the source of the problem. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check water pressure to make sure that it isn't too high, particularly if the noise stops when you run water. High water pressure frequently causes water pipes to hum. Purchase a water pressure test gauge at a local hardware store and screw it onto your outside water faucet. When you turn on the faucet, the pressure displays on the gauge. If the water pressure is more than 60 or 70psi, adjust the pressure reducer valve on the main water line or hire a plumber to install one if there isn't one already. Turn the valve counterclockwise to decrease water pressure.
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Locate the water main valve, which should be located inside the basement where the water line enters the house or near the water meter. If there is a pressure reducer valve on the pipe near the main water valve, it should be completely open. When a valve isn't open all the way, pipes can make noises. If this doesn't work, try changing the washer on the valve. Contact your water company first to request that service be shut off until the valve is repaired. A worn or loose washer can cause humming when water flows over it. Check all shut-off valves and faucets.
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Change a washer in a faucet by using a screwdriver to remove the screw that attaches the handle to the faucet. After lifting off the handle, loosen the nut with an adjustable end wrench and then remove the washer underneath. Replace with a new washer. Put the nut back on and tighten it. Reassemble the faucet.
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Close off individual shut-off valves in an effort to find from where the noise is coming, especially if you hear it after flushing the toilet. Don't forget the valve near the bottom of the toilet tank close to the wall. The tank fill valve inside the toilet tank could be causing the problem as well. When the noise stops, open each valve one at a time. If the noise starts again, you may have to replace the tank fill valve.
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Test to see if the toilet flapper is leaking. Add several drops of dark food coloring to the water in the toilet tank. Wait about 30 minutes and then see if the water in the toilet bowl is discolored. If it is, the flapper, which resembles a rubber plug, is probably leaking slowly. Empty the toilet tank, remove the old flapper from the chain, and replace with a new one.
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Check the temperature pressure relief valve on your hot water heater to make sure that it isn't leaking water. TPR valves are either mounted on the top of a hot water tank or sometimes on the side.
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Tips & Warnings
It is estimated that more than 20 percent of household toilets have leaks inside the tank, wasting thousands of gallons of water each month. Even a very slow leak can waste several hundred gallons of water within a few weeks time.
