Ticking in ceiling after hot water use

Plumbing pipes making ticking or clicking noises

Quick Answer:

Most ticking heard after using hot water comes from normal thermal expansion and slight movement of pipes or the framing that holds them. To check, run hot water then stop and listen for cooling ticks, press lightly on the nearby wall or ceiling to feel any movement, and note whether the sound fades gradually or stays a sharp repeatable click. If the noise spreads through finished walls or you feel movement that worries you, a plumber can trace the pipe path and verify safe support points.

Why This Happens

Pipes heat up when hot water flows. The metal expands a little, and when the flow stops the pipe cools and contracts. That change can rub against framing, hangers, or furring strips and make ticking sounds. Pipes in tight holes, clipped close to wood, or running near ceilings are more likely to make audible ticks. For similar noises in other places, see Thermal ticking after dishwasher cycle and Clicking behind shower wall.

Step-by-Step What to Do

Step 1 — Recreate the sound

  • Run hot water (a sink or bathtub) for a minute or two, then turn it off.
  • Stand quietly and listen for the cooling ticks that often follow the stop of flow.

Step 2 — Feel for movement

  • Press lightly on the nearby wall or ceiling where the sound seems loudest. You’re checking for subtle vibrations or movement of the finish.
  • If you feel a small shift under light pressure, note its location and whether it lines up with known plumbing runs (behind a bath, kitchen wall, etc.).

Step 3 — Characterize the sound

  • Note whether the sound fades gradually over seconds or minutes, or whether it stays sharp and repeated.
  • Gradual fading usually points to normal cooling. Sharp, repeating ticks may mean rubbing or a loose support that needs attention.

Step 4 — Inspect visible access points

  • Check basements, closets, or attic spaces where the same pipe run is exposed. Look for loose hangers or pipes touching wood.
  • If you can see the pipe and make a simple correction (tighten a clip or add a soft cushion) do so carefully; avoid forcing anything into finished cavities.

Step 5 — Record and monitor

  • Keep a short note of when the ticking happens (which fixture, how long of hot flow) to share with a pro if needed.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t wedge rigid shims into cavities or force pieces between pipe and framing—this can create new stress points or damage the pipe.
  • Don’t spray foam blindly into wall or ceiling cavities to “stop the noise.”
  • If ticking is near electrical runs or finished ceilings, have a plumber trace the pipe path first rather than poking holes yourself.
  • Don’t assume a single click always means a leak; avoid cutting into finishes without confirming the cause.

When to Call a Professional

Call a plumber when any of these apply:

  • The noise spreads through finished walls or ceilings and you can’t locate the source from access areas.
  • You feel visible movement when pressing on the ceiling or see stains, moisture, or corrosion near the pipe run.
  • The ticking is sharp, frequent, and doesn’t fade after cooling, suggesting a loose support or rubbing against framing.
  • The pipe run is close to electrical wiring or in a finished area—have a plumber trace and fix supports rather than guessing.

A plumber can verify safe support points, add proper clips or insulation, and trace concealed runs without damaging finishes.

Safety Notes

  • Don’t work near live electrical wiring. If pipes and wiring are close, call a professional.
  • Turn off water before loosening or adjusting pipe hangers in exposed areas.
  • Avoid using aggressive methods (rigid wedging, spray foams) that can trap heat against pipes or hide problems.
  • If you see leaks, stains, or corrosion, stop using nearby fixtures and contact a plumber promptly.

Common Homeowner Questions

  • Is ticking dangerous? Usually no—most cases are normal thermal expansion—but persistent sharp ticks or any sign of leaks should be checked by a professional.
  • Will insulating the pipe stop it? Sometimes; adding proper pipe insulation or soft pads at contact points can reduce noise, but a plumber should install solutions in finished areas.
  • Can I fix it myself? You can do the listening and light-feel checks and tighten exposed loose clips, but don’t open finished ceilings or use spray foam—call a plumber if the source is hidden or near wiring.

For more related articles, see the Ticking or Clicking Sounds During Water Use hub.

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