How To Fix a Noisy Faucet

A noisy faucet can be more than just an annoyance—it’s often a sign of an underlying plumbing issue. Luckily, you can fix many faucet noises with simple DIY solutions. In this video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey teaches you how to silence a hammering faucet.

Let’s walk through diagnosing and fixing common faucet noises to bring peace and quiet back to your home.

Common Causes of Noisy Faucets

Faucet noises can stem from different sources within your plumbing system. Understanding these common causes is the first step in addressing the problem:

• Loose parts: Over time, components within the faucet can become loose and rattle or vibrate when water flows through. This is common with older faucets or those that have been used heavily.
• Water pressure issues: High water pressure can cause pipes to vibrate, resulting in a range of noises from humming to banging. This is particularly common in homes with older plumbing systems or in areas with high municipal water pressure.
• Worn washers: As Trethewey points out, worn washers are a frequent culprit behind faucet noises. These small rubber components can deteriorate over time, leading to vibrations and whistling sounds as water passes through.

Pro Tip: Trethewey explains that noise typically points to a constriction in the water supply: “Any place where that water supply constricts—goes through a smaller opening—and you have the presence of a worn washer or maybe a Teflon tape, a foreign object in there, or even a check valve, and you get this vibration.”

Required Tools to Fix Faucet Noise

The only tool you need in your arsenal is an adjustable wrench:

Diagnosing the Problem With Your Noisy Faucet

Before attempting any repairs, you’ll want to figure out where the noise is coming from. Follow these steps to pinpoint the issue:

1. Turn on the faucet and listen carefully to determine if the noise is coming from the hot water, cold water, or both.
2. Note whether the noise happens only when the faucet is fully open, partially open, or at any position.
3. Check if the noise is constant or intermittent.
4. Pay attention to any changes in water pressure or flow that coincide with the noise.
5. Inspect visible parts of the faucet and surrounding pipes for any signs of wear or damage.

Pro Tip: Not every faucet noise originates at the faucet itself. On one This Old House house call, a persistent ticking noise turned out to be a pipe rubbing against wood framing rather than a faucet defect. As Richard Trethewey noted: “Any time I hear that kind of noise, I think that there’s some pipe rubbing up against wood.” So before disassembling your faucet, trace the plumbing lines to check for contact points where pipes pass through walls or floors.

Simple Fixes for Noisy Faucets

Here are a few straightforward fixes to common faucet noises that don’t require extensive plumbing knowledge.

Adjusting the Shut-Off Valve

A partially closed shut-off valve may be the source of your faucet noise. To address this:

1. Find the shut-off valves under the sink.
2. Make sure the valves are fully open by turning them counterclockwise until they stop.
3. Test the faucet to see if the noise is gone.

Pro Tip: Trethewey explains why a partially closed valve causes noise: “All that water has to pass through this tiny little opening right there. And as it does, it leaves the washer the chance to vibrate.” He emphasizes that shut-off valves should always be left fully open to prevent this issue.

Cleaning the Aerator

A clogged aerator can cause whistling or squealing noises. To clean it:

1. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip.
2. Rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any debris.
3. Soak the aerator in vinegar for a few hours if mineral deposits are present.
4. Scrub gently with a soft brush if needed.
5. Reattach the aerator and test the faucet.

Pro Tip: According to This Old House Magazine, after any faucet installation or repair, always finish by removing the aerator and flushing out the pipes. This prevents any debris created during the work from getting caught in the mesh filter, which can lower water pressure—and potentially cause noise problems down the line.

Replacing Worn Washers

If the faucet still makes noise, worn washers could be the problem. Follow these steps to replace them:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Disassemble the faucet handle and stem.
3. Find and remove the old washer.
4. Install a new washer of the same size and type.
5. Reassemble the faucet and test for noise.

Advanced Solutions for Persistent Noises

When simple fixes don’t work, you may need to try these more advanced solutions.

Installing a Pressure-Reducing Valve

If high water pressure is causing noise throughout your plumbing system, installing a pressure-reducing valve at the main water line can help. This valve regulates the water pressure entering your home, potentially eliminating various plumbing noise issues.

Upgrading to a Ball Valve

Ball valves tend to be quieter than traditional stem valves. Replacing noisy shut-off valves with ball valves can provide smoother operation with less noise.

Addressing Water Hammer

Water hammer happens when the water flow suddenly stops, causing banging in the pipes. To fix this:

1. Install water hammer arrestors near the noisy fixtures.
2. Check for loose pipes and secure them with pipe straps.
3. Make sure the air chambers in your plumbing system are working properly.

Checking for Pipe Obstructions

Sometimes, unseen obstructions within the pipes themselves can cause noises. To tackle this problem:

1. Use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
2. Insulate your pipes to reduce vibrations.
3. Contact a professional if the issue persists.

Preventive Faucet Maintenance

Regular maintenance can help prevent faucet noises from developing in the first place:

• Clean your aerators every few months to prevent mineral buildup.
• Have a professional plumbing inspection annually to catch potential issues early.
• Inspect the visible plumbing connections for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Monitor your home’s water pressure and make adjustments as necessary to maintain the proper levels.
• Periodically check and tighten loose faucet components.
• Verify the proper installation of all plumbing fixtures and components.

Seasonal expansion and contraction can cause pipes to loosen and vibrate when you turn on the tap—a recipe for both noise and leaks. As recommended by This Old House Magazine, if the noisy line is under a sink, pad it tightly with foam insulation where it emerges from the wall. For exposed pipes causing the clamor, fit a wood shim or block between the wall and the pipe and pin the pipe to the wood with a U-clamp.

When To Call a Professional

While you can fix many faucet noises on your own, some situations require professional help:

• You have discolored water alongside the noise.
• You’re not comfortable with more complex plumbing repairs.
• The noise persists despite your efforts.
• You need specialized tools or plumbing parts.
• There are signs of significant pipe corrosion or damage.
• There are sudden changes in water pressure throughout the home.