If your radiator is making strange noises, you're not alone. Whether it's a persistent banging, an annoying whistling, or a mysterious gurgling, noisy radiators are a common issue in many homes, especially during colder months. These sounds can be more than just a nuisance—they might indicate underlying problems in your heating system that need attention.
Understanding the different types of radiator noises and their causes is the first step to resolving these issues. In this guide, we’ll break down why your radiator might be making noise, explore what those sounds mean, and provide practical steps you can take to fix them.
Whether you're dealing with a clicking noise, a hissing sound, or something more serious, we’ve got you covered with solutions that range from simple DIY fixes to knowing when it’s time to call in a professional.
Is a radiator making noise dangerous?
Noisy radiators can be unsettling, especially if the sounds are loud or unusual. The good news is that most radiator noises are not dangerous.
However, they should not be ignored as they often indicate that your heating system is not functioning as efficiently as it should. Left unaddressed, these issues can lead to higher energy bills or even damage to your heating system.
Different radiator noises and how to fix them
There are a few common reasons why your radiator might be making a noise. Let's explore some of the most common sounds you might hear and how to fix them.
Clicking noise
A clicking noise from your radiator is one of the most common sounds and is usually nothing to worry about. This noise typically occurs when the metal in the radiator expands or contracts as it heats up or cools down.
How to fix your radiator when it's making a clicking noise
If the clicking noise is persistent and bothersome, you can try reducing it by adjusting the temperature of your radiator gradually rather than making sudden changes.
This can help minimise the expansion and contraction of the metal. Additionally, ensuring your radiator pipes are properly secured and free of any obstructions can also help reduce clicking noises.
Hissing noise
A hissing noise usually indicates that there is air trapped in your radiator. This air prevents hot water from circulating properly, leading to inefficient heating and cold spots on your radiator.
How to fix a radiator making a hissing noise
The solution to a hissing radiator is straightforward: you need to bleed the radiator. To do this, turn off your heating system and use a radiator key to open the bleed valve slightly.
You'll hear a hissing sound as the trapped air escapes. Once the water starts to come out, close the valve. This should release all the air and allow your radiator to heat evenly.
Check out our handy step-by-step guide on how to bleed your radiators for more detailed information.
Whistling noise
A radiator making a whistling noise can be particularly irritating, especially when you're trying to relax.
This sound often occurs when air is being forced through a small space, like a partially closed valve or a kinked pipe.
How to fix a radiator making a whistling noise
To stop the whistling noise, check the radiator valves and ensure they are fully open. If the valves are fine, the whistling might be caused by a blockage in the pipes.
In this case, a thorough flushing of your central heating system by a heating and gas engineer might be necessary to remove any debris or limescale buildup that could be restricting water flow.
Gurgling noises
Gurgling noises are usually caused by air bubbles trapped in the radiator or pipes. These bubbles interfere with the flow of hot water, leading to inefficient heating.
How to fix gurgling noises from your radiator
To fix a gurgling radiator, you need to bleed the radiator to release the trapped air pockets. If the gurgling persists, it could indicate a larger issue, such as a buildup of sludge in the system. In this case, flushing the radiator or the entire heating system might be necessary.
Banging noise
A banging noise from your radiator can be alarming and is often a sign of a more serious issue. This noise is usually caused by kettling, which is the buildup of limescale in your boiler or heating system.
How to fix banging noises in your radiator
If your radiator is making a noise that sounds like banging, it's crucial to tackle the issue quickly to avoid potential damage. Start by checking the water pressure in your heating system, ensuring it falls within the recommended range. Low or high pressure can cause various issues, including those annoying banging sounds.
One possible solution is to drain the radiator to release any trapped air or water that could be causing the noise. To do this, first, turn off your boiler and gas supply. Then, shut off the intake valve and let the radiator cool down completely.
Once it’s cool, open the drain valve carefully—some liquid should start to come out, so have a bowl ready to catch it. After draining, close the valve, turn the intake valve back on, and restart your boiler.
If the banging noise continues after these steps, it may indicate a more severe issue, such as limescale buildup within your heating system. In this case, a professional heating engineer might need to power-flush your system.
Bubbling or crackling noise
Bubbling or crackling noises are typically caused by air or water trapped in the radiator or heating system. These sounds can also indicate the presence of sludge, which is a buildup of rust and dirt inside the radiator.
How to stop your radiator making a bubbling or crackling noise
To stop the bubbling or crackling noise, start by bleeding your radiator to release any trapped air. If the noise continues, it may be necessary to flush the radiator to remove any sludge.
Regular maintenance, including bleeding and flushing your radiators, can help prevent these noises from occurring in the future.
Running or dripping water noise
A radiator that sounds like it's running or dripping water can be disconcerting. This noise is often caused by air pockets in the system, which disrupt the normal flow of water.
How to fix a dripping noise coming from your radiator
Bleeding the radiator is usually the best way to fix a dripping noise. This process will release the trapped air and allow water to flow smoothly through the pipes.
If the noise persists after bleeding, it might indicate a more serious issue, such as a leak in the system, which would require professional attention.
When to call in a JustFix professional
While addressing noisy radiators can often be handled with some DIY solutions, there are times when it’s best to call a heating engineer.
Contact a qualified heating and gas engineer at JustFix. We provide high-quality service at affordable prices.
If your radiator continues to make noises despite trying the suggested fixes, or if you notice recurring issues like cold spots or unusual boiler behaviour, it could be a sign of a deeper problem in your heating system.
Our team of Fixers works nationwide, ensuring you have access to skilled professionals at fair, fixed prices. When you book with JustFix online, we’ll connect you with a local heating engineer who can assess and resolve your heating issues at a time that’s convenient for you.
