• Bathroom Sink Vibrates When Turned On

    Bathroom Sink Vibrates When Turned On

    Quick Answer:

    Vibration when you open the faucet usually comes from loose or unsupported pipes, high water pressure, or internal valve issues. Start by securing loose supply lines, adding simple pipe insulation or clamps, and testing the water pressure. If the shaking or noise continues, call a plumber.

    Why This Happens

    Pipes and fixtures are meant to be held firmly. When water flows quickly or a valve closes/opening causes a sudden change in flow, the resulting forces can make pipes move or vibrate. Common causes include:

    • Loose supply lines or unsecured pipe straps under the sink.
    • High water pressure or pressure spikes from the house supply.
    • Worn faucet valves, cartridges, or loose mounting hardware inside the faucet.
    • Missing or compressed vibration-absorbing material around pipes and fixtures.
    • Sometimes vibration is joined by other signs like a whistling sound or a hard-to-turn handle — see **Bathroom Sink Makes Whistling Noise** and **Bathroom Sink Faucet Handle Is Hard To Turn** for related issues.

    Step-by-Step What to Do

    1. Observe and narrow the cause

    • Turn the faucet on slowly, then to full flow. Note whether vibration starts immediately or only when the flow changes.
    • Try cold and hot separately — if only one side vibrates, focus on that supply line and shutoff valve.
    • Listen for where the noise or shaking is strongest (under-sink supply lines, behind the wall, or at the faucet body).

    2. Secure loose supply lines

    Loose flexible supply lines often hit other pipes or the cabinet and cause vibration. To secure them:

    • Shut off the water at the shutoff valves under the sink before adjusting connections.
    • Tighten loose mounting nuts at the shutoff valves and the faucet with the correct wrench (don’t overtighten).
    • Use pipe straps, metal clamps, or heavy-duty zip ties to fasten flexible lines to the underside of the cabinet or a nearby wall stud so they don’t move when water flows.

    3. Add pipe insulation and vibration dampers

    Foam pipe sleeves or rubber pads reduce contact vibration and small rattles:

    • Slip foam insulation around exposed copper or plastic pipes under the sink where they pass through holes or touch the cabinet.
    • Place small rubber or foam pads where the supply lines contact wood or metal.
    • For in-wall pipes you can add insulation around the pipe access point, or ask a pro about adding vibration isolators in wall cavities.

    4. Test pressure

    High house pressure or spikes cause more force that can make pipes vibrate. To check pressure:

    • Attach a water pressure gauge to a hose bib or washing machine outlet (or have a plumber test it). Normal residential pressure is typically 40–60 psi.
    • If you don’t have a gauge, open multiple taps simultaneously to see if pressure drops or vibration changes — dramatic swings suggest pressure issues.
    • If pressure is above the normal range or there are pressure spikes, a pressure-reducing valve or a plumber’s diagnosis is appropriate.

    5. Check valves and faucet mounting

    • With water off, make sure the faucet mounting nuts are snug so the fixture itself isn’t moving.
    • If vibration seems to come from inside the faucet, the valve cartridge or aerator may be worn or loose — inspect and replace manufacturer-recommended parts if comfortable doing so.
    • After any adjustment, restore water and retest slowly to confirm improvement.

    What Not to Do

    • Do not ignore pipe movement — small vibrations can become louder, cause wear, or lead to leaks.
    • Do not hammer pipes or clamp them down so tightly that you damage fittings or tubing.
    • Do not attempt soldering or major in-wall work unless you are trained; cutting or heating pipes without experience can create leaks or safety hazards.

    When to Call a Professional

    • If vibration continues after securing lines and adding insulation.
    • If you find a leak, corrosion, or a cracked pipe when inspecting under the sink.
    • If water pressure is excessively high or pressure spikes persist; a plumber can test and install a pressure-reducing valve.
    • If the noise or movement seems to come from inside the wall or the main supply — these situations often need professional tools and access.

    Safety Notes

    • Always shut off the local shutoff valves before tightening or working on supply lines. If there are no local shutoffs, turn off the house main.
    • Release pressure by opening the faucet after closing a valve before disconnecting any fittings.
    • Use the right tools and avoid overtightening fittings; plastic fittings and flexible hoses can be damaged easily.
    • If electrical outlets or wiring are near the work area, turn off power before working to avoid water-electric hazards.

    Common Homeowner Questions

    • Why did this start suddenly? A loose clamp, worn valve part, or a recent change in water pressure can make vibration start abruptly.
    • Can I fix it myself? Minor fixes like tightening lines, adding foam insulation, and testing pressure are DIY-friendly; in-wall problems are best left to pros.
    • Will vibration damage pipes? Repeated vibration can loosen fittings and increase wear, so address it rather than ignoring it.