Strange Plumbing Noises: Why Do My Pipes Sound Like a Foghorn?

It may sound absurd to compare simple plumbing noises to a foghorn until you actually hear the noise. This is a deep humming that reverberates and can be caused by several different things, depending on where in your house the noise is coming from. Let’s take a look at the common culprits.

Toilet

This is one of the most frequent causes of the foghorn sound in plumbing. If you hear the sound every time that the toilet is used, then it’s probably a problem with the ballcock (a.k.a. fill or flapper) valve inside the toilet. When ballcocks get offset or old, they no longer close the valve properly and shudder – this can quickly echo and get amazingly loud.

The easiest solution for this issue is to pop the top off of your toilet and see if you can replace the “ball” part of the valve so that it closes completely. You may need to replace the valve altogether, so it’s best to contact a professional.

Faucet

If you hear this sound when you turn on a faucet, then it’s probably a problem with a faucet washer. A loose faucet washer, when subjected to water, can also create a lot of noise and may approach that foghorn-level of noise. Tighten the screws throughout your faucet system to try to stop this problem. If your faucet continues to rattle, get in touch with your plumber.

Washer

At some point, you have probably heard your washer or dishwasher make some strange sounds as it fills up with water. One of the most common noises is the sharp, slamming “machine gun” noise that indicates valve problems. If this rattle grows fast enough it can also cause reverberating, foghorn-like sounds.

Here, the problem is probably related to a worn out solenoid fill valve, which is a bit like the one in your toilet, but smaller, stronger and harder to reach. It’s probably time to replace that valve before it gives up forever.

Inside the Walls or Widespread Issues

If you have trouble pinning down where the foghorn sounds in your plumbing fixtures are coming from, or if it appears to be coming from all your appliances, then it’s time to call your plumber. A professional will cover all the bases, such as: are the pipes old? Are the brackets holding them in place loose? A few loose pipes may be causing these noises. You should also check to see if you have a pressure regulator (located at your water meter or near your water source), and if the foghorn noise is coming from this regulator, it may be malfunctioning and due for a replacement.

For answers to your questions or for a solution to strange plumbing noises, contact the Pink Plumber today!

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >
parts and labor icon

$50 OFF Any Repair

  • Save $50 on a Paid Service
  • Written 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
  • Plus, ask how to save an additional 15% and waive your trip charge!
print

© 2024 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.