When I flush the toilet I hear a loud thumping sound from the pipes. Any thoughts?

Question

It even happens when I start the washing machine.

Thanks

It happens to every toilet in the house and even to some of the faucets.

Answer 1

It's called water hammer.

Water hammer isn't always something that you need to install a new water hammer arresters ( they're called various things such as air chambers and air cushions). Lift up your ballcock or float ball while this is happening. If it stops, you know it is an easy fix and cheap as well ($15 or less). Just replace the offending ballcock or float ball. If it doesn't stop it, then you should call a plummer.

Answer 2

My first thought is that you've got a loose pipe somewhere, and it's rattling against a wall. If you've got a basement, and you can see the plumbing on the ceiling under the bathroom, go down there. Have someone flush the toilet, and try holding different water pipes still to see if the noise stops. If it does, you can get plastic clips that fasten to the floor joists to hold the pipe still, or at least hold it away from whatever it's banging against. If this doesn't do it, you may have a water hammer situation going on, but that doesn't sound as likely. Water hammering happens when an automatic valve, such as in a washing machine or dishwasher closes suddenly. All the flowing water in the pipe suddenly stops, and that momentum makes the pipe move or jump, and maybe bang into a wall. The clips may help that, but the usual solution is a water shock absorber. It's a short piece of pipe that's closed at one end, and that sticks straight up. It contains air inside that is compressed by the momentum of the water. This dissipates that momentum more slowly than without the shock absorber, and reduces or eliminates the banging. But unless you're comfortable with doing plumbing, you'll probably need a plumber or handiman to put this in. I'd recommend the handiman myself - plumbers charge SCARY rates sometimes.

Answer 3

Buy a water pressure gage at a Hardware store for about $15. Screw it on to an out side faucet and turn the faucet on. The pressure should be between 40 and 80 lbs.

Answer 4

It's called hammering. The water valve shuts off fast and the weight and flow of water changes speed ubruptly. If left unchecked, you may crack a solder connection on one of your pipes inside a wall.
It took a night of research but I found shock absorbers for water pipes made by chief. I put them on the washing machine (hot and cold) and it helps the entire household.

Answer 5

what type of flush system is in the tank of the toilet? if it's one of those pressurized systems, the water inlet valve may need replaced or adjusted.

Answer 6

you should check the plumbing and make sure its all straped up. then if it is you will have to add a couple of surge pipes to your cold water line. they have to stand up above the plumbing and it allows for surge pressure when you open or close a water valve.

Answer 7

Eat less fiber? Tell your washing machine too

Answer 8

You should call someone to check your pipe. And do it as soon as you can!

Good luck!

Answer 9

Rats......................