How to Fix Odd Noises Around the House

Are you hearing weird noises around the house? Sometimes these noises are a warning that something really unpleasant is going to happen. But before you can do anything you need to know what you are hearing. Here are some explanations of some of the sounds you might hear:

Gurgling noise from the toilet

This can happen for two reasons. First, your sewer line might be blocked up. Tree roots can grow into the pipes. And to make the matter even worse, you might have flushed a few baby swipes down the pipe. These items can snag on the roots, causing the sewer line to get blocked partially.

A gurgling sound may also suggest that your toilet valve has been worn-out. If that’s the case, you should get the gasket in your tank reservoir replaced. Call a plumber if you notice these problems. If you are really handy, you can fix the problem with a sewer snake.

Knocking inside the walls

You might hear these sounds when you turn the faucets on or off. When the faucets are turned on or off, air pressure may build up inside the pipes. When this pressure is released, it can cause the pipes to vibrate. The pipe probably was not properly mounted or it may have loosened over time. In either case, vibration can cause the pipes to bang against the wall studs and then you will hear the sound. You should open up the walls and put sleeves over the pipes. You will probably need help, and a home repair technician is the right person to call.

Hissing and groaning from the radiator

Expanding metal can cause your radiator to hiss and groan. There is hardly anything you can do to improve the situation other than buying decorative boxes for the radiator. They might reduce the noise a little, but they don't solve your problem. Ideally, you should call an HVAC expert.

Humming from the fridge

The compressor motor inside an old refrigerator can cause a humming noise. There are several electrical devices inside your refrigerator and they can cause all kinds of problems and noises. That said, new refrigerators don't usually make noises. If you hear humming noises from your refrigerator, you should call an electrical appliance repair specialist.

Squeaking noise from the dryer

Old washing machines may have a belt wrapping around the drum. A loose or worn out belt may cause squeaking noises. If you suspect this problem, you should get the dryer repaired by an electrical appliance repair technician.

Thumping noise from your washing machine

When the washing machine is overloaded, the clothes can get bunched up on one side. This can cause the spin cycle to be thrown off balance. In this case, all that you need to do is to open the lid and spread the clothes more evenly.

Creaking stairs and floors

Loosened wooden boards moving up or down against the nail may cause creaking noises. Wooden planks rubbing against each another may also cause this noise.

What you need to do is tighten the planks by screwing or nailing. Or you can glue them. That said, these sounds might add to the charm of an old house and some people may not want them to disappear. However, if you can’t stand the creaking, you can get it fixed by a home repair technician.

Rattling windows

Strong winds can cause your windows to rattle. Try covering old windows with storm sashes. You may also consider installing a block-frame or Tilt Pac windows. A window repair technician can fix this problem.

Hissing faucets

Old faucets with faulty washers can cause running or hissing sounds. Homeowners can usually solve these problems on their own. You can buy washers from a local hardware store.

Chewing or scratching in the walls or ceiling

If you hear constant scratching noises in the ceiling, you should suspect a rodent problem. Call a pest control specialist to get them expelled them from your home.

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