A kitchen sink is one of the most essential and frequently used fixtures in any home. It helps you with cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, and more.
However, sometimes your Kitchen Sink can make annoying noises that disrupt your peace and comfort.
You may hear:
- a gurgling sound when you drain the water,
- a banging sound when you turn on the faucet,
- a hissing sound when you fill the sink, or
- a humming sound when you run the garbage disposal.
These noises can indicate various problems with your plumbing system, such as air in the pipes, clogged drains, blocked vents, water hammer, or faulty valves.
Not only are these noises irritating, but they can also damage your pipes and cause leaks or bursts if left untreated.
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Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can try to solve the problem yourself.
In this article, we will show you 15 ways to fix a noisy kitchen sink and explain the causes and symptoms of each noise.
By following these tips, you can restore your kitchen Sink to its normal and quiet operation.
Fix 1. Run Water for 2-3 Minutes
One of the simplest and easiest ways to fix a noisy kitchen sink is to run water for 2-3 minutes.
This can help flush out any air bubbles that may be trapped in the pipes and cause gurgling sounds.
Air bubbles can form when the water supply is shut off for some reason, such as during maintenance or repair work.
To get rid of them, turn on both the hot and cold faucets and let the water run until the noise stops.
Fix 2. Clean the P-trap
The P-trap is the curved section of pipe under your sink that prevents sewer gas from entering your home.
It also traps debris and grease that may clog your drain and cause gurgling sounds. To clean the P-trap, you will need a bucket, a wrench, and some gloves.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any water or waste that may spill out.
- Loosen the nuts that connect the P-trap to the drain pipe and the wall pipe using a wrench.
- Remove the P-trap carefully and dump its contents into the bucket.
- Use a wire brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the inside of the P-trap and remove any buildup.
- Rinse the P-trap with hot water and reattach it to the pipes.
- Tighten the nuts securely and check for leaks.
Fix 3. Use a Plunger or a Snake
If cleaning the P-trap does not solve the problem, you may have a clog further down your drain pipe that causes gurgling sounds.
To clear the clog, you can use a plunger or a snake (also known as an auger). A plunger is a tool that creates suction and pressure to dislodge clogs.
A snake is a tool that has a flexible cable with a pointed end that can break up or pull out clogs.
Here are the steps to use either tool:
- Fill the sink with enough water to cover the drain opening.
- If you have a double sink, plug one drain with a wet rag or a stopper.
- Place the plunger over the other drain and push it up and down vigorously several times.
- If you see water or debris coming up from the drain, remove the plunger and let the water drain.
- If not, repeat the process until you clear the clog.
- Alternatively, you can use a snake instead of a plunger. To do so, insert the cable into the drain until you feel resistance.
- Turn the handle clockwise to rotate the cable and break up or hook onto the clog.
- Pull out the cable slowly and remove any debris attached to it.
- Repeat until you clear the clog.
Fix 4. Check the Vent Pipe
The vent pipe is a pipe that connects your drain system to your roof. It allows air to enter and exit the pipes, which helps the water flow smoothly and prevents gurgling sounds.
However, sometimes the vent pipe can get blocked by leaves, dirt, animals, or ice.
This can create a vacuum in the pipes and cause gurgling sounds. To check the vent pipe, you will need a ladder, a flashlight, and some gloves.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Climb up to your roof and locate the vent pipe. It is usually a metal or plastic pipe that sticks out of the roof near your kitchen.
- Shine a flashlight into the pipe and look for any signs of blockage.
- If you see any, use your gloves to remove them carefully.
- If you cannot reach them, you can use a garden hose to spray water into the pipe and flush them out.
- Alternatively, you can use a snake to clear the blockage.
Fix 5. Adjust the Water Pressure
Another possible cause of a noisy kitchen sink is high water pressure.
High water pressure can create turbulence and vibration in the pipes, which can result in banging, hissing, or humming sounds.
High water pressure can also damage your pipes and faucets and increase your water bill.
To adjust the water pressure, you will need a pressure gauge, a screwdriver, and a wrench.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Attach the pressure gauge to an outdoor faucet and turn on the water.
- Check the reading on the gauge. The ideal water pressure for most homes is between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch).
- If the reading is higher than 60 psi, you need to lower the water pressure.
- To do so, locate the pressure regulator valve near your main water shutoff valve. It is usually a bell-shaped device with a screw on top.
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- Use a wrench to loosen the lock nut on the pressure regulator valve.
- Use a screwdriver to turn the screw counter clockwise to reduce the water pressure.
- Turn on the main water shutoff valve and check the pressure gauge again.
- Adjust the screw until you reach the desired pressure level.
- Tighten the lock nut and turn off the outdoor faucet.
Fix 6. Install a Water Hammer Arrestor
A water hammer is a phenomenon that occurs when a sudden change in water flow causes a shock wave in the pipes.
This can happen when you turn off a faucet quickly or when an appliance like a dishwasher or a washing machine stops filling with water.
A water hammer can cause banging sounds in your pipes and damage them over time. To prevent water hammer, you can install a device called a water hammer arrestor.
A water hammer arrestor is a small chamber that contains air or gas that absorbs the shock wave and cushions the pipes.
You can install a water hammer arrestor near your kitchen sink or near your appliances that use water.
You will need some pipe fittings, a wrench, and some Teflon tape.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- Locate the pipe that supplies water to your kitchen sink or appliance and cut it with a pipe cutter.
- Use Teflon tape to wrap around both ends of the cut pipe.
- Attach one end of the pipe to one end of the water hammer arrestor using a pipe fitting.
- Attach the other end of the pipe to the other end of the water hammer arrestor using another pipe fitting.
- Tighten both fittings with a wrench.
- Turn on the main water shutoff valve and check for leaks.
Fix 7. Replace or Repair Faulty Valves
Sometimes, your kitchen sink can make hissing or humming sounds because of faulty valves. Valves are devices that control or regulate the flow of water in your pipes.
They can be found in your faucets, under your sink, or near your main water shutoff valve.
If they are worn out, damaged, or loose, they can cause noise and leaks in your plumbing system.
To fix this problem, you need to replace or repair faulty valves. You will need some replacement valves, a wrench, and some Teflon tape.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- Locate the faulty valve that is causing noise in your kitchen sink. It could be the faucet valve, under-sink valve, or main valve.
- Use a wrench to loosen and remove the faulty valve from its connection.
- Use Teflon tape to wrap around the threads of both ends of the new valve.
- Attach one end of the new valve to its connection using a wrench.
- Attach the other end of the new valve to its connection using another wrench.
- Turn on the main water shutoff valve and check for leaks.
Fix 8. Insulate the Pipes
Another way to fix a noisy kitchen sink is to insulate the pipes.
Insulating the pipes can reduce the noise caused by water flow, vibration, or expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Insulating the pipes can also prevent heat loss and save energy.
You can use foam pipe insulation, fiberglass pipe wrap, or rubber pipe sleeves to insulate your pipes.
You will need some insulation material, a utility knife, and some duct tape.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- Locate the pipes that supply water to your kitchen sink and measure their length and diameter.
- Cut the insulation material to fit the length and diameter of your pipes using a utility knife.
- Wrap the insulation material around your pipes and secure it with duct tape.
- Turn on the main water shutoff valve and check for noise reduction.
Fix 9. Replace Old or Damaged Pipes
Sometimes, your kitchen sink can make noise because of old or damaged pipes.
Old or damaged pipes can have corrosion, cracks, leaks, or loose joints that can cause noise and water damage.
To fix this problem, you need to replace old or damaged pipes with new ones.
You will need some new pipes, pipe fittings, a pipe cutter, a wrench, and some Teflon tape.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- Locate the old or damaged pipes that supply water to your kitchen sink and mark where you need to cut them with a marker.
- Use a pipe cutter to cut the old or damaged pipes at the marked spots.
- Use Teflon tape to wrap around the threads of both ends of the new pipes.
- Attach one end of the new pipe to one end of the old pipe using a pipe fitting.
- Attach the other end of the new pipe to the other end of the old pipe using another pipe fitting.
- Tighten both fittings with a wrench.
- Turn on the main water shutoff valve and check for leaks.
Fix 10. Install Anti-Vibration Pads
Another possible solution for a noisy kitchen sink is to install anti-vibration pads.
Anti-vibration pads are rubber or foam pads that absorb vibration and noise from appliances that use water, such as dishwashers or washing machines.
These appliances can cause humming or rattling sounds in your pipes when they operate.
To install anti-vibration pads, you will need some pads, a level, and some screws.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Unplug your appliance from the power source and turn off its water supply valve.
- Move your appliance away from its location and place it on a flat surface.
- Place one anti-vibration pad under each leg or corner of your appliance and adjust them until they are level.
- Secure each pad with a screw through its center hole.
- Move your appliance back to its location and reconnect its power source and water supply valve.
Fix 11. Clean or Replace the Faucet Aerator
The faucet aerator is a small device that attaches to the end of your faucet spout.
It mixes air with water to create a smooth and even flow and reduce splashing.
However, over time, the faucet aerator can get clogged with mineral deposits, dirt, or debris that can cause hissing or whistling sounds when you turn on the faucet.
To fix this problem, you need to clean or replace the faucet aerator. You will need some pliers, vinegar, an old toothbrush, and a new faucet aerator (if needed).
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off both the hot and cold water valves under your sink.
- Use pliers to unscrew the faucet aerator from the faucet spout. Be careful not to damage the threads or the finish of the faucet.
- Rinse the faucet aerator under running water and use an old toothbrush to scrub away any dirt or debris.
- If the faucet aerator is still clogged, soak it in a bowl of vinegar for 15 minutes and then rinse it again.
- If the faucet aerator is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one that matches your faucet model and size.
- Screw the faucet aerator back onto the faucet spout and tighten it with pliers.
- Turn on both the hot and cold water valves under your sink and check for noise reduction.
Fix 12. Clean or Replace the Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal is a device that grinds food waste and sends it down the drain. It can help you keep your kitchen sink clean and odor-free.
However, sometimes the garbage disposal can make humming or grinding sounds when you run it.
This can be caused by a jammed or dull blade, a loose or broken part, or a clogged drain.
To fix this problem, you need to clean or replace the garbage disposal.
You will need some pliers, a hex wrench, a wooden spoon, baking soda, vinegar, and a new garbage disposal (if needed).
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off the power supply to your garbage disposal by unplugging it from the outlet or flipping the circuit breaker.
- Use pliers to disconnect the drain pipe from the garbage disposal and place a bucket under it to catch any water or waste that may spill out.
- Use a wooden spoon to manually rotate the blade of the garbage disposal and dislodge any stuck food or objects. Be careful not to put your hand inside the garbage disposal.
- If you cannot rotate the blade, use a hex wrench to insert into the hole at the bottom of the garbage disposal and turn it back and forth until you free the blade.
- If you still cannot rotate the blade, you may need to replace the garbage disposal with a new one that fits your sink and plumbing system.
- To do so, use pliers to disconnect the wires from the old garbage disposal and remove it from its mounting bracket.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new garbage disposal and connect it to the wires, drain pipe, and mounting bracket.
- Turn on the power supply to your garbage disposal and test its operation.
Fix 13. Lubricate the Faucet Cartridge
The faucet cartridge is a device that controls the flow and temperature of water in your faucet.
It can be found inside the faucet handle and has a stem that moves up and down and a disk that rotates left and right.
Over time, the faucet cartridge can wear out, get dirty, or corrode, which can cause squeaking or screeching sounds when you turn on the faucet.
To fix this problem, you need to lubricate the faucet cartridge. You will need some pliers, a screwdriver, a rag, and some silicone grease.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off both the hot and cold water valves under your sink.
- Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the cap or the set screw and pulling it off.
- Use pliers to remove the retaining nut or clip that holds the faucet cartridge in place.
- Pull out the faucet cartridge carefully and inspect it for any damage or debris.
- If the faucet cartridge is damaged, replace it with a new one that matches your faucet model and size.
- If the faucet cartridge is dirty, clean it with a rag and some warm water.
- Apply some silicone grease to the stem and disk of the faucet cartridge and spread it evenly.
- Insert the faucet cartridge back into its position and secure it with the retaining nut or clip.
- Reattach the faucet handle and tighten it with the screwdriver.
- Turn on both the hot and cold water valves under your sink and check for noise reduction.
Fix 14. Check for Leaks
Sometimes, your kitchen sink can make dripping or trickling sounds because of leaks in your pipes or faucets.
Leaks can waste water, increase your water bill, and cause mold or mildew growth in your cabinets or walls.
To fix this problem, you need to check for leaks and repair them as soon as possible.
You will need some paper towels, a flashlight, and some plumber’s tape or epoxy.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Turn off both the hot and cold water valves under your sink.
- Use a flashlight to inspect all the pipes and faucets for any signs of moisture, corrosion, or cracks.
- If you find any leaks, mark them with a marker or a piece of tape.
- Turn on both the hot and cold water valves under your sink and observe if any water drips or trickles from the marked spots.
- If you see any leaks, turn off both the water valves again and drain the pipes by opening all the faucets in your home.
- For small leaks in pipes or joints, you can use plumber’s tape or epoxy to seal them. To do so, wrap plumber’s tape around the leaky spot several times or apply epoxy over it and let it dry.
- For large leaks in pipes or faucets, you may need to replace them with new ones that fit your plumbing system.
- Turn on both the water valves again and check for leaks.
Fix 15. Call a Professional Plumber
If none of these quick fixes work for you, or if you are not comfortable with doing them yourself, you may need to call a professional plumber to fix your noisy kitchen sink.
A professional plumber can diagnose and repair any plumbing problem that causes noise in your kitchen sink, such as faulty valves, damaged pipes, blocked vents, water hammer, or clogged drains.
A professional plumber can also advise you on how to prevent noise in your kitchen sink in the future.
Conclusion
A noisy kitchen sink can be annoying and frustrating. It can also indicate serious plumbing problems that can damage your pipes and fixtures.
However, you don’t have to live with a noisy kitchen sink forever.
By following these 15 quick fixes, you can fix most of the common causes of noise in your kitchen sink and enjoy a quiet and smooth operation.
However, if you are unsure about what is causing noise in your kitchen sink, or if you are not confident about doing these quick fixes yourself, you should call a professional plumber to help you out.
