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Does your house creak, groan or whistle? That’s usually quite normal: those kinds of sounds are just part of its personality! However, some strange noises should be taken seriously and could be a sign of a real problem. Here are the worrisome sounds that you should listen out for.
1. Buzzing or humming in the walls
Noises in house walls should be taken seriously: any buzzing, shaking, vibrating or scratching probably indicate the presence of bees, mice, squirrels or even birds inside the walls. If you hear such noises, install traps or call in an exterminator. If what you hear is more like the sound of flowing water, you’ve probably got a burst pipe. Call your plumber right away!
2. Squealing, popping or hissing in the furnace
In cold weather, what’s more comforting than the warm hum of the furnace? But if this is accompanied by a cacophony of squeaks or squeals, the motor might need oiling or replacing. If you hear knocking, check the fan because it might be bent or off its base. Popping sounds (like popcorn) can also indicate that the gas line is clogged. Whistling is the sign of a dirty filter, so be sure to clean or change the filter every three months.
3. Whistling windows
If your windows are old and starting to whistle, it’s probably time to change the sealant or silicone that holds the window glass in place. It’s a simple operation. However, if that doesn’t work, the problem might be more serious. The window could be badly installed or the frame poorly adjusted. If in doubt, call a professional.
4. Clanking and smacking in the radiator
If your home has a steam heating system with accordion-shaped radiators, for example, you may already have heard clanking. When the sounds go on and on, they can be a nightmare. The clanking probably means there are air bubbles in the system that have to be removed by purging the radiators. This involves loosening the bleed valve, usually located on top of the radiator, and placing a container underneath to collect the water as it drains out. You will hear the air escape progressively less. Once the water starts to drain without making any noise, the purge is complete!
5. Boiling or clicking sounds in the water heater
When the water heater constantly sounds like it’s boiling, that’s a cause for concern. This means there’s probably a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the unit. Clicking could indicate that it’s time to replace the safety valve or its spring. In both cases, it’s best to hire a specialist to clean or repair the unit.
6. Grinding, humming or clicking sounds in your household appliances
Does your dishwasher make a grinding sound? Check for a utensil or piece of debris stuck in the drainage pump. Does the refrigerator buzz or make a clicking sound? Perhaps the compressor needs to be fixed. If it makes a humming or pounding sound, something is wrong with one of its fans. If the cause is a clump of ice blocking the fan blades, you can easily dislodge it. Call a professional if you need help.
7. Rumbling or whistling in the hydraulic pump
If some of your appliances are connected to a hydraulic pump, listen for unusual sounds coming from the pump, such as shaking, rolling, vibrating or whistling. These noises could be due to cavitation, the presence of air or even a pump pressure problem. An expert will be able to make the correct diagnosis.
By listening carefully and following our tips, you can avoid the worst! However, since none of us knows what disaster might be just round the corner, the best precaution is to take out the right kind of home insurance. If you haven’t already done so, don’t delay and get an online quote in just a few minutes.