Quick Answer:
On cold days a ticking sound is most often thermal movement: pipes, fittings or supports contracting as they cool after hot-water use or when the whole system drops in temperature. Try running hot water briefly, then stop and listen as things cool. Press lightly on nearby walls or the ceiling to feel for tiny movement, and note whether the sound fades gradually or stays sharp. If you can hear the noise through finished walls or ceilings, have a plumber trace the pipe path and verify safe support points so the cause can be fixed without damaging finishes.
Why This Happens
Pipes and their fastenings change size with temperature. On cold days metal and plastic pipes contract; insulated or tightly packed runs can rub against framing or clips and make sharp ticking noises. A short burst of hot water can make the pipes expand, then tick as they return to the lower temperature.
Recent work on plumbing or insulation can make these noises more noticeable while the system settles. See Ticking after repiping for situations tied to new piping and Ticking noise after insulation install when added insulation changes how pipes contact structure.
Step-by-Step What to Do
Step 1 — Recreate the sequence and listen
- Run a sink or shower for 30–60 seconds, then shut it off.
- Move to the area where you hear the tick and listen as the water and pipes cool.
- Note whether the sound fades gradually (typical of thermal contraction) or stays a sharp, repeating tick (could be a loose clip or mechanical contact).
Step 2 — Feel for movement
- Press lightly on the nearby wall or ceiling where the sound seems to come from. You may feel a tiny shift or vibration if a pipe or clip is moving against framing.
- If you can access the pipe in a basement, crawlspace or attic, look for loose straps, metal-to-wood contact, or insulation that bunches up and allows movement.
Step 3 — Narrow the source
- Check multiple fixtures: run hot water at a different faucet to see if the ticking follows the same run or stops.
- If the run is exposed, tighten loose clamps or replace worn clips with padded pipe supports. Only do this where the pipe is accessible and you are confident about not stressing fittings.
Step 4 — If the noise spreads through finished walls or ceilings
- Stop invasive probing. Call a plumber to trace pipe routing behind finishes and verify that supports are installed where needed before any repair is attempted.
What Not to Do
- Don’t wedge rigid shims into cavities or force hard materials between the pipe and framing to stop movement — that can stress the pipe and fittings.
- Don’t spray foam blindly into wall or ceiling cavities to stop the noise; foam can trap heat, hide leaks, or bind pipes in a way that causes future damage.
- If the ticking is near electrical runs or finished ceilings, don’t cut into drywall or chase the pipe without a professional — have a plumber trace the pipe path first.
When to Call a Professional
- Call a plumber when the ticking is loud, persistent, or audible through finished walls and ceilings.
- Call promptly if you see signs of movement that stress drywall (cracks), see corrosion or damp spots, or suspect a loose support near a joint.
- A plumber can locate the pipe, verify safe support points, and recommend fixes that won’t compromise the piping or finishes.
Safety Notes
- Do not poke deeply into wall cavities; you can damage wiring, insulation or plumbing.
- Avoid applying hard fillers or rigid materials against pipes without professional guidance.
- If you discover a leak or wet insulation, shut off the water supply for that section (if you know how) and call a professional to assess both plumbing and any water damage.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why is the ticking worse on cold days? Cooler temperatures cause pipes and materials to contract more, increasing chance of rubbing or clicking as parts shift.
- Can I stop it myself? If the pipe run is exposed and you can safely tighten loose clips or add padded supports, yes; otherwise have a plumber inspect hidden runs.
- Is it a sign the pipe will fail? Not usually. Ticking from thermal movement is common; persistent looseness, leaks, or visible damage should be checked by a professional.
For more related articles, see the Ticking or Clicking Sounds During Water Use hub.