A Knocking Sound in the Plumbing of the Sink

High water pressure is one cause of knocking sounds at the sink.


Rushing water makes all sorts of sounds as it runs through the pipes and out the faucets in your home. While whooshing and whistling sounds might seem normal, knocking and banging sounds are also common plumbing problems.

Possible Causes

If the water pressure is too high in your home, it can create a knocking sound known as water hammer. A pressure reducer added to the water main or water hammer arrestor can resolve this problem. Loose pipes under the sink can also create a knocking noise. Adding padding around the pipes or clamping them to the wall studs stops the sound. If the sound occurs only when the faucet is turned on, it may be a problem with the faucet, such as a loose washer or debris in the valve opening. Listen to the sound to determine whether it begins as soon as the faucet is opened. It may be necessary to tighten the inner workings, replace washers or clean out debris.

About the Author


Photo Credits

  • Tay Jnr/Digital Vision/Getty Images
Suggest a Correction