Is noisy heating normal?
You'd be surprised how many people put up with noisy heating for years because they think it's normal. A little ticking when the heating comes on isn't usually anything to worry about. Other noises tell me different things.
What do the different noises mean?
| The noise | What it often points to |
|---|---|
| Ticking when the heating comes on | Copper pipes expanding as they warm up. Not usually anything to worry about |
| Gurgling in a radiator | Trapped air |
| Banging when the heating starts | Pipes expanding against timber, loose pipework or a circulation problem |
| A bang when you shut a tap | Water hammer |
| Pump suddenly loud, vibrating or grinding | The pump, its settings or air in the system. A gentle hum can be perfectly normal |
| Boiler rumbling or kettling | Poor circulation, sludge or overheating. That deserves attention |
Why does it matter when the noise happens?
The timing of the noise is nearly as important as the noise itself.
I'd always ask whether it happens when the heating starts, while it's running, or when it switches off. That'll often point me in the right direction before I've even taken a tool out of the van.