What that Scary Noise In Your House Means
Is there a scary noise in your home that’s been keeping you up at night? Causing distress during your work-from-home days? Whether you’ve lived there for years or just moved in, don’t panic just yet. While some strange sounds are normal, others might need your more immediate attention. Here’s what those noises could mean—and what you should do before calling in the ghost hunters.
If you’ve been hearing banging or knocking sounds, it’s likely due to the pipes in your walls. Expanding or contracting pipes—caused by changes in water or air temperature—are very common. This is especially true if you live in a colder climate, or an area where temperatures change more rapidly. While this usually doesn’t require immediate action, you can install a water hammer arrestor or check for loose pipes to quiet the sound and get some shut-eye.
Scratches, pitter-patters and rattles are often signs that small critters are hiding out in your walls, vents, or attic. This is especially common in colder climates, where rodents seek warmth and shelter indoors. Seal any gaps in windows or doors, investigate where animals might be entering, and set traps as needed.
A whistling or hissing sound is usually caused by air escaping through windows or vents. Be sure to check the insulation of your home to try and fix the sound before panicking. Even placing a towel near the window and door seals can make a big difference. However, if the sound is accompanied by a foul odor, it could indicate a gas leak. If that’s the case, evacuate the home immediately and call your gas company.
Clicking or buzzing sounds throughout the day could be a sign that your electrical wiring needs attention. An overloaded circuit can also cause these sounds. This is not usually harmful but can be quite annoying if left unfixed. If the noise is coming from a breaker box or outlet, turn off the power and call an electrician.
Groaning sounds in your home are often related to structural elements. These noises are common in older homes or during bad weather. They’re typically harmless, but if something feels off, inspect for structural issues and contact a professional if needed The likelihood your house will blow away in the wind is slim!
Hearing dripping when it’s not raining? Gurgling or dripping sounds could signal clogged drains, hidden leaks, or sewer problems. To prevent water damage, regularly clean your drains and have your plumbing inspected on a consistent basis.
We hope this article helped bring you a bit of peace of mind as you investigate what that scary noise in your house might mean. Don’t worry - most of the time, these sounds are nothing serious! Trust your gut and call in professionals if something feels off. If you are ready to ditch the sounds and find a new home, our pros at VSells&Associates can help you find your dream place!
Whether you are buying or selling, we at VSells & Associates make it our mission to guide our clients through the whole process. We make moving simple, straightforward, and as stress-free as possible.