What's That Sound?

Ever wonder what those noises are coming from your plumbing? Maybe there is a thump in the wall or a gurgle in the sink drain. Jim Fusco, a Mr. Rooter service manager in Manchester, New Hampshire, explains the meaning of the most common plumbing sounds.

Water running when it shouldn't: This is usually a problem with the toilet. The solution is to change the toilet flapper or all of the internal working parts.

Thump in the wall when the water turns off: Known as a water hammer, "This happens when a valve is closed quickly and the water stops hard," says Fusco. Water hammer is common with washing machines and some older dishwashers that have electric shut-off valves. "When they turn off the water, they immediately shut off." The installation of a charged air cylinder known as a shock absorber or water-hammer arrestor, which acts as a cushion for the water pressure, will fix the problem.

• Drain gurgling: This is a blockage of air in the drain, typically caused by a clog. Removing the clog should fix the problem.
• Rattling: Something is loose—a pipe clip or hanger—or the pipes are rubbing together.
• Whistling noise: "This is usually a broken faucet washer that is caught in a valve," says Fusco. "The sound is water trying to get by."
• Strange noises from the water heater: Fusco explains that this is frequently just normal tank expansion.

For these and other sounds you may hear, Fusco recommends calling your Mr. Rooter service provider.

LINDA A. ODUM