How to get noise out of plumbing?

Question

I have a neighbor who's home was built in the late 70's single level with PEX plumbing. I recently had to make a repair to a leaking line . I ended up replacing it with a Sharkbite T and some CPVC. I did the repair and ever since they have been experiencing noise in the AM when they first run the water. Since then I have tried to eliminate the noise : strapping the pipes, using insulation and bleeding the pipes several times. I got the best results by :draining all the water out of the pipes except for the water heater with the water shut off at the street. Then turning all the faucets on in the house then turning the water on letting it run for a few minutes till it ran smoothly then shut off the faucets. I waited till the next day to hear what happened and they told me it was better but this morning it was even worse than before. I have looked for air chambers both at his house and mine but haven't found any. The plumbing was silent before the repair I need to figure this out because the noise is bothering them and taking up my time having to try to solve this. I am of the opinion that I may have to install a water hammer arestor but the problem only occurs when they turn on the water and not shut it off .

Update:

Went and bled the system again just a short while ago. I did it instead of letting him do it like before. I drained the system and opened all the faucets then turned the water back on and let it run for a few minutes. When shutting the water off in the bathtub in the Master bath found the tub spout moves when you turn the water off or on told them to check it in the am by holding it and having the wife turn the water on and see if they still hear the noise. I would have never found this out if I hadn't went to bleed the pipes when the wife was there and not him so I hope this works.

Jesse Howard · Accepted Answer

You didn't say what kind of noise you were hearing.If you hear a banging noise,you might have to install a antihammering device.

? · Answer

Well, I don't know for sure what the noise is or why it's happening.  But you said you've strapped the pipes in as best you can.  THAT can be a problem.  Pipes expand and contract.  Changes in water temperature and changes in pressure will affect all of that.

If the pipe is expanding and is held tightly in place it WILL move.  But when it moves it will make a lot of noise.  You just might be over clamping the pipes.  Or the type of clamps you used might be not allowing movement.  Plastic pipe clamps or plastic lined clamps should allow the pipes to slip more easily and not make all the noises associated with expansion.

Now, as I opened, I'm not sure of the reason why you're hearing noises.  Air in the lines usually shouldn't cause noise.  If the problem isn't expansion then it might be a bad valve somewhere.  Could be a bad pressure regulator.  When washers go old they sometimes act like reeds in a musical instrument.  They can transmit noise throughout the house.  And I've had teeth swallowing noises come from a hydronic furnace a couple times caused by a bad pump bearing.  Talk about swallowing your teeth and pooping them out in a half second!  Noise like I never heard before.  And I've heard plenty of bad bearings in my lifetime.

So check that you're not over clamping your plumbing.  If pipes can't move they will find a way.  And be noisy doing so.  Also check your faucets.  See if you get more noise with a particular faucet.  It may be time to replace washers and gaskets.  Check your pressure too.  If the regulator is bad it can cause noises to transmit all throughout the house.

Hope this helps.

'')

Footman · Answer

In the UK we use a anti-hammer globe, if you are in the USA I think you call them arrestors. This basically acts like a shock damper. Using a flexible copper tube link will also help.

? · Answer

Hoping to talk to you about being a sub. What is your email?

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How to get noise out of plumbing?

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