Hideous noise when running water..

[mp129]

Hello folks,

Whenever I run an upstairs tap or shower, there's a very good chance I'll hear a horrible groaning noise which fills the house. Hot or cold taps - same thing. Usually it stops quite quickly (30 seconds?) but sometimes it goes on for a minute of two. Sometimes switching off the supply will stop it immediately, but not always.

It really is loud. If the house wasn't detached, the neighbours would have lynched me by now.

I'm thinking air in the system? Any help much appreciated.

Thanks in anticipation..

 

[JohnD]

buy this (not a cheap substitute)

https://www.screwfix.com/p/pegler-float-valve-part-2/27627


go in loft

look for big tank

fit it

If no big tank, tell us what sort of plumbing system you have

 

[mp129]

Thanks John,

I was right with you up until "fit it". Will it be obvious, or do I need a plumber?

There's a big tank near the loft hatch..

 

[JohnD]

undo the big nut on the stem. It might fit on the old stem.

see also

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ballcock+tank

Or ask around for personal recommendations of a wrinkly old plumber.

 

[mp129]

Thanks. I'll attempt this in the next couple of days and report back.

In the meantime,
Is the problem air in the system?
Does the plumber have to be old and wrinkly?

 

[JohnD]

No

Preferably.

 

[mp129]

Thanks again. Watch this space...

 

[Adam182]

Had the same problem at my parents, was a worn float valve as linked above. It was vibrating causing the noise.

Easy as pie to swap out just make sure water is turned off then it's pretty much just unscrewing the connection into the valve and then unscrewing the nuts that clamp the valve to the tank.

I reused the float that was attached to the old valve.

 

[MTCH]

I would make sure that the house insurance covers diy plumbing before you attempt this job.

 

[Hot&Cold]

I would make sure that the house insurance covers diy plumbing before you attempt this job.

Check with your insurance company,they may increase your premium for accidental damage to property & contents,something to do with 'risk'.

 

[MTCH]

And if they find half a new valve attached to half of the old when investigating major damage from a leak, it's unlikely that they'd pay out anyway.

 

[JohnD]

what a strange post.

 

[DaveHerns]

KenGMac is our insurance expert but I was in the industry. I'm not aware of any exclusions for DIY work but I'll have a look at my policy.

 

[Adam182]

Seems a little overly cautious I think especially if your insurance doesn't cover it and you have to fork out for a plumber to do the swap, it's literally one connection, just sit by it for 5 minutes after swapping it out, if it doesn't leak then it's golden.

 

[AGAS]

FFS