How to Troubleshoot Rattling Pipes & Discolored Water

A damaged washer may be the culprit behind your rattling faucet

You likely don't usually think much about the complex system of water pipes hidden in your home until something goes wrong. Two common plumbing problems include noisy pipes and sediment induced water discoloration. Investigate these issues yourself and you might be able to fix them on your own. Other problems will require the assistance of a contractor or plumber.

Instructions

Rattling Pipes

1. Turn on the faucet that has been rattling.

2. Put your ear near the faucet. If the rattling is coming from the faucet, you probably have a damaged or broken washer inside the faucet. You can easily remove a broken washer by removing the faucet handle.

3. Follow the sound further if the rattling was not near the faucet and is instead somewhere behind a wall or ceiling. In this case, the pipe may be loose and could be knocking against a joist or wall stud. Place your hand to the wall where you hear the sound and use the vibration to help you pinpoint the location. If the location of the knocking is immediately accessible, cover the pipe in foam pipe covers or secure it with pipe hangers. If the pipe is not accessible and is inside a wall, try bracing the pipe at its closest exit point. Otherwise, you may have to cut the drywall.

Discolored Water

1. Pour water in a clear glass. If the water is cloudy, this is likely the result of tiny bubbles created by the water becoming cold while sitting in the system. Let the water run for 1 to 2 minutes to clarify.

2. Turn on all of the faucets in the house and let them run for 4 to 5 minutes if the water is a rusty color. If the water clears, some harmless sediment probably found its way into your pipes.

3. Repeat running all of the faucets two more times throughout the day if the water remains discolored. If the water still does not clear, you may have a water main break, a damaged and rusting water heater or badly rusted pipes. Consult a professional to deal with these problems. If you are on a well, you may have bacteria in your well. In this case, have your water tested and treated by a water treatment company.

References

• Home Tips: How to Fix Noisy & Chattering Pipes
• Staten Island Plumbing: General Plumbing FAQ