Skip to content

Radiators

Why Are My Radiators Noisy?

Radiators shouldn't be silent partners in a noisy house. Here's what common sounds mean.

3 min read · Updated October 2026

Radiator with air bubbles inside and sound waves showing gurgling

Gurgling

Gurgling usually means air in the system. Bleeding the affected radiators normally solves it. If it returns quickly, there may be a leak or another fault letting air in.

Ticking and clicking

As radiators and pipes heat and cool, they expand and contract. Where they rub against brackets or floorboards, they can tick. It's usually harmless, though brackets can be adjusted.

Need a heating engineer?

Describe the job and compare free quotes from local heating engineers near you.

  • Free to use
  • No obligation
  • Compare local engineers
  • Quick online form
Get Free Quotes

You'll continue to our quotes partner, MyJobQuote, to describe your heating job.

Banging and whistling

Louder noises are worth investigating:

  • Banging can be caused by air, high pump speed, loose pipes or sludge
  • Whistling from valves can mean the flow is restricted
  • Hissing from a valve can indicate a small leak

Common questions

Is gurgling bad for radiators?

Not immediately, but it means air is present and heating won't be as effective.

Why do radiators tick at night?

They're cooling and contracting.

Can pump speed cause noise?

Yes, too high a speed can cause rushing or whistling sounds.

Get quotes from local heating engineers

When you're ready, describe the job once and compare free, no-obligation quotes.

Get Free Quotes