What is That Noise? Troubleshooting Unusual Sounds from Your Whole House Water Filter
How to Diagnose and Fix Humming, Gurgling, or Tapping Sounds Caused by Air, Loose Parts, or Failing Components.
While a minor whooshing or mild hum is normal for some water systems (especially reverse osmosis or units with a pump), loud, persistent, or strange noises are a red flag. Identifying the sound is the first step to a solution.
Common System Noises and How to Fix Them
| Noise Type | Likely Cause | Solution |
| Gurgling, Hissing, or Sputtering | Trapped air in the lines or filter housing, often after a filter change or a water shut-off/maintenance event. | Purge the Air: Run the filtered water tap slowly for 5-10 minutes. Many systems have a dedicated air release or "purge" valve—press it while the system is under pressure to release the trapped air. |
| Loud Banging or Knocking | This is often Water Hammer, which is common in plumbing but can be amplified by loose filter components or pipes. It can also be caused by a valve snapping shut too quickly. | Secure Components: Ensure the filter unit, housing, and connecting pipes are firmly mounted and secured. For loud valve noise, a professional plumber may need to install a water hammer arrester. |
| Clicking or Tapping | Can be a valve or a small component opening and closing, or a loose part being rattled by water flow. | Inspect Valves: If the system uses solenoids or automatic shut-off valves, a technician may need to inspect or replace a faulty valve. Tighten all external screws or mounting brackets. |