A faucet should be silent when turned on, aside from the sound of running water. But if yours is making strange noises, from whistling to banging, it’s a sign that something’s wrong.
Ignoring these noises can lead to bigger plumbing issues, so it’s important to figure out the cause and fix it before it gets worse.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Common faucet noises and what they mean
✔ DIY fixes you can try today
✔ When to call a plumber
Let’s get started! 🚰🔧
Common Faucet Noises & What They Mean
Different faucet noises indicate different issues. Here are the most common sounds and their causes:
1. Whistling or Screeching 🚨
Cause: A loose or worn-out washer, valve, or aerator.
Fix:
✔ Turn off the water supply and check the washer inside the handle. If it’s worn, replace it.
✔ Remove the aerator (the small screen at the tip of the spout), clean it, and reattach it.
✔ If the noise persists, the internal valve cartridge may need replacing.
2. Banging or Knocking (Water Hammer) 🔨
Cause: A sudden change in water pressure, often when turning the faucet off.
Fix:
✔ Install a water hammer arrestor—a small device that absorbs the shock and prevents pipes from shaking.
✔ If the problem happens with multiple faucets, your home’s water pressure may be too high—adjust it using a pressure regulator.
✔ Secure any loose pipes under the sink to prevent movement.
3. Hissing or Sputtering 💨
Cause: Air trapped in the pipes or issues with the water supply.
Fix:
✔ Turn on all faucets in your home for a few minutes to flush out trapped air.
✔ If only one faucet is affected, remove the aerator and clean it.
✔ If you’re experiencing this after a water supply issue (like a recent pipe repair), let your water run for a few minutes to clear the system.
4. Gurgling or Bubbling 🌊
Cause: A clogged or blocked pipe slowing water flow.
Fix:
✔ Remove the aerator and clean it—built-up debris can restrict flow.
✔ If the problem persists, check under the sink for clogged pipes and clear them using a drain cleaner or plumber’s snake.
5. Clicking or Tapping Sounds 🔊
Cause: Loose or shifting parts inside the faucet.
Fix:
✔ Tighten the faucet handle—if it’s loose, it could be causing vibrations.
✔ Check the supply lines under the sink and tighten any loose connections.
✔ If the noise comes from inside the faucet body, the internal components may be worn and need replacing.
6. Dripping Sound Even When Off 💧
Cause: A slow leak from worn-out seals or a bad washer.
Fix:
✔ Replace the washer or O-ring inside the faucet handle.
✔ If the faucet still drips, the valve cartridge may need to be replaced.
✔ If ignored, even a slow drip can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year—fix it ASAP!
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried these DIY fixes and your faucet is still making noise, it may be time to call a professional plumber.
🚨 Call a plumber if:
✔ The noise affects multiple faucets in your home.
✔ There’s water pressure fluctuation throughout your house.
✔ You suspect a deeper plumbing issue, like pipe blockages or leaks.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Faucet Running Quietly
A noisy faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s often a sign of wear and tear or hidden plumbing problems. By identifying the noise and fixing the root cause, you can keep your faucet working smoothly for years to come.
At FaucetExpress.com, we carry high-quality, durable faucets that are built to last—no weird noises included! If your old faucet is causing too many issues, it might be time for an upgrade.
👉 Browse our collection of top-rated faucets today!
FAQs About Noisy Faucets
1. Why does my faucet make a noise only when turned on?
This usually means a loose washer, clogged aerator, or high water pressure. Try cleaning the aerator first.
2. Can high water pressure damage my faucet?
Yes! High pressure can cause water hammer (banging pipes), leaks, and worn-out seals. It’s best to keep water pressure below 60 PSI.
3. Is it better to repair or replace a noisy faucet?
If the faucet is old (10-15+ years) and causing frequent issues, replacing it is often the better long-term solution.