Why is my radiator making a noise?

Noisy radiators are like that one noisy neighbour—not something you want! While some sounds are perfectly normal, others may indicate more serious issues.

If your radiator is making noise, it’s important to identify the cause and get it addressed quickly. Radiators are essential to our heating systems, and a malfunctioning one can cause major headaches.

To help you figure out what’s causing the noise and how to fix it, our heating experts at Advanced Plumbing and Heating have put together this guide.

Creaking or Clicking Sounds in Radiators and Pipework

Creaking or clicking sounds are often caused by the pipework or radiators expanding and contracting as heat affects their structure. Common causes include:

  • Tight radiator brackets causing friction as the radiator expands.
  • Improperly supported pipework moving too much during expansion.
  • Pipework near joists or surfaces, such as floorboards, rubbing and causing noise.
  • Solid debris inside the system being pushed around and hitting the pipework or radiator.

Gurgling Noises in Radiators

If your radiator is gurgling, it typically means there’s trapped air or an issue with the water velocity in the system. Possible causes include:

  • Water velocity – Water moving too quickly can cause turbulence, leading to gurgling noises. This is often seen with older systems or those with fixed-speed pumps.
  • System pipework configuration – In open-vented systems, incorrect piping can draw air into the system, causing trapped air and noise.
  • Corrosion in the system – Corrosion between dissimilar metals and water can produce gas, leading to noise. A system flush can help resolve this.
  • Low system water pressure – If water pressure is low, it may cause air and noise in the system. Check for leaks and re-pressurise if needed.

Banging Noises in Radiators

Banging sounds are often caused by:

  • Loose or faulty components – Vibrating pipes, fittings, or brackets can cause noise when the system is running.
  • Water flow issues – A blockage or restricted flow can cause banging as water struggles to circulate, potentially causing overheating and boiling.
  • Air in the system – Trapped air can lead to airlocks, stopping water flow and creating banging noises. Bleeding the radiator can help resolve this.

Hissing Noises in Radiators

Hissing sounds often occur when there’s an open bleed valve releasing air. Simply closing the valve should stop the noise. If not, you may need to contact a professional heating engineer to replace the valve.

DIY Fixes for Common Radiator Noises

If you’re hearing a strange noise from your radiator, there are a few simple DIY fixes you can try before calling a professional. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing any of these, it’s always best to reach out to a professional to avoid worsening the issue.

  • Bleed your radiators – Bleeding removes trapped air, allowing water to circulate more efficiently. Use a radiator bleed key to release air, and always start with the radiator farthest from your boiler.
  • Tighten loose fittings – If you suspect loose fittings are the cause of clunking or banging, carefully inspect the pipes, brackets, and fittings. Tighten them with a wrench or spanner.
  • Check your water pressure – If your boiler’s pressure is low, it could be allowing air into the system. Check your boiler’s pressure gauge and adjust as necessary (it should be between 1-2 bars).
  • Check for leaks – Leaks can introduce air into the system, making noise. If you find any, repair them quickly using a pipe repair kit or contact a professional to prevent further damage.
  • Replace your radiators – If your radiators are old and noisy no matter what you try, it might be time to replace them with newer, quieter models.

If your radiator noises persist or you’re unsure how to fix the issue, don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Plumbing and Heating for expert help and advice. We’re here to ensure your heating system is running smoothly!