PDA

View Full Version : "clicking noise in pipes when shower runs"


kimmeade
May 30, 2008, 07:15 PM
Every time one of our upstairs showers runs, there is a "clicking" noise that is heard from the pipes below. The "clicking" continues the entire length of the shower, and for a few minutes after showering is complete. You can't hear the clicking if you're the one showering, only if you are sitting in the living room below the bathroom. This does not occur when showers are taken in the other upstairs shower. What could be the cause? Please help!

ballengerb1
May 30, 2008, 07:53 PM
Try turning on the shower with cold water only, bet there's no clicking. Now try hot only, if there is clicking its likely a very long straight run of hot water pipe expanding from the heat of the water, possibly also sliding on the joists and rafters. Not much you can do for inside the walls but try to isolate the pipe wherever you can with a pipoe insulator.

speedball1
May 31, 2008, 06:21 AM
Knocking, popping, creaking and crackling pipes are a common complaint, especially in colder weather. I can tell you what's happening and take the mystery out of it but you're not going to like the repair. When a draw is made on a hot water line the line expands against a pipe strap next to a stud and when you drain hot water from your tub or shower it goes into a chase that is a little cooler then room temperature. The heat expands the pipe causing it to rub against the stud to which it is pipe strapped. This is the sound you hear. As it cools it contracts and the noise is heard again. To repair it you must tear open the walls and locate the pipe strap that's causing the problem and shim it tight. Most people when they learn what causes it just elect to live with it. Regards, Tom