Latest Discussions : Plumbing

01:57PM | 02/14/05

Member Since: 02/13/05
3 lifetime posts

Noises in the wall

Tags: Plumbing

Everytime I run the washing machine (located on the first level) there is a strange vibrating / humming noise that comes from inside the wall. The noise is not coming from by the machine, but it sounds like its coming from the other side of the house. It only makes that sound two times during the cycle, and lasts about 30 seconds each time. We have now noticed that the sound also occurs when we turn the shower in our master bedroom (located on second level) off. Our home is about 8 years old, and to my knowledge nothing has been replaced since construction. What could be the problem??

LonnythePlumber

05:39PM | 02/14/05

It could be a loose washer somewhere in your system. When water runs from a source it reduces the pressure in the system allowing a loose part to move back and forth. This is usually the toilet fill valve but not always. Try shutting off the valve to the toilets or other fixtures in order to identify location.

sarasloman

05:55AM | 02/15/05

Member Since: 02/13/05
3 lifetime posts

If it is a loose washer, what do we do to fix this? Is it an expensive fix?

LonnythePlumber

08:47AM | 02/15/05

It's almost always economical to fix and something most homeowners can do. However the cost is in time to determine what to fix. Your complaint is common and a search of this site for similar posts can provide some depth in understanding how to identify and what solutions most have found. Usually it's a toilet but not always.

Close valves to eliminate fixtures. Try to separate the hot lines from the cold. The sound can be heard away from it's source.