[runsane]

I realize chattering pipes, when hot water is turned on, is a common issue for a lot of people and there are some remodies. The copper pipe that extends out of the hot water tank and meets the floor joist is bent rather than using an elbow to redirect the pipe. Could this be an issue causing chattering in a line?

[massplumber2008]

Hi Runsane...

Chattering may be caused by loose washers, for example, at a shutoff in line. It could be at a main water shutoff or it could be at a fixture shutoff... could even be in the fill valve of the toilet. Here, isolate the sound to a particular fixture or fixtures if possible and consider disassembling the shutoffs to check the washers to see if they are loose or can be lifted from the stem. If so, replace the washer and the screw holding it.

Another device that can cause chatter is a pressure reducing valve. Here, this is usually found near your water meter (if present) and it may need to be adjusted, cleaned or replaced. The chatter associated with this valve is almost always found to be associated when any fixture is used, OK?

Vacuum breakers can also cause chatter but check all of the above first... let us know more after that.

Mark