Shower Is Squealing: Top 5 Causes & Easy Fixes Explained
Did you ever switch on your shower hoping to have a relaxing and quiet stream of water to enjoy, and instead heard a very loud and sharp squeal that even made it sound like someone is playing a violin inside your bathroom? Yes, the high pitch sound is both irritating and even alarming. Nonetheless, there is a silver lining to the issue and it is that shower squealing is normal and nearly there is always an easy explanation to it. Nowadays, the five most popular causes by top plumbers of your shower squealing like a pig, and what you can do about it, are broken down.
1. Malfunctioning Shower Valve
The shower valve regulates the mixture and flow of cold and hot water. When it is exhausted or loaded with mineral deposits the water finds it hard to pass through it easily- a sharp squeaky noise. When the squeal occurs when changing the temperature or turning the handle, then it is most likely that your valve is the problem. The problem can easily be solved by changing the cartridge or by flushing away the accumulation.
2. High Water Pressure
When your shower reads like it is screaming, then there is the possibility that it has an excessively high water pressure. This overpressure results in water rushing through the tight crevices with a squealing or a whistling sound. This can be checked by turning down the water pressure of the main valve or having a pressure-reducing valve. Balanced pressure is not only a safeguard to your shower, but your whole plumbing, and professional plumbing inspection services can help identify hidden issues, perform repairs, and maintain your entire system for long-term performance.
3. Mineral Deposition of Pipes or Fixtures
Hard water deposits minerals, which gradually reduce the size of your shower head or even your plumbing pipes. This water makes a squealing sound as it passes through these narrow openings. Hassle-free cleaning of your showerhead deposits can simply be achieved by washing it (vinegar) or flushing the plumbing lines flushed with a large quantity of water. If you live in areas with hard water, pipe cleaning has to be a regular maintenance practice.
4. A Fancy-Free or Half-Open Valve
There are a few squealing noises on the valves which are not fully open, particularly water supply valves behind the wall or under the sink. When water is forced to go through a half-closed value, it is vibrated and whistles. Test the supply valves that are available and make sure they are open completely. In case the noise is caused by the valve within the wall, a professional might be required to check the valve.
5. A Damaged or Old Showerhead
Showerheads wear out with time. Strange sounds may be produced by cracked nozzles, internal damage or clogged mesh screens when water is flowing through them. At other times, the squeal is merely the shower-head saying that it needs to be replaced. The remedy may be as simple as replacing the faulty showerhead with a new one that is of good quality to achieve a smooth and silent flow of water.
Conclusion
A squealing shower could be a cause of alarm; however, it is very easy to diagnose when you are aware of the usual causes of the same as highlighted by professional staffs. Most of these problems can be tackled with some basic maintenance, or rapid update, including worn valves and high-pressure as well as clogged fixtures. A simple routine, where weekly cleaning helps minimise mineral buildup, can keep your shower running quietly.