Is your faucet making a high-pitched noise that you just can’t ignore? This problem is a lot more common than you might think, especially in areas with hard water. Below, we’ll explain the typical reasons why this issue occurs, along with solutions to resolve it.

1. Hard Water Mineral Buildup

“Hard water” contains a lot of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. When hard water gets warm, this can cause the minerals to solidify and leave deposits on the inside and outside of your pipes and plumbing fixtures–including your faucets. If enough buildup accumulates inside your faucet, it will start restricting the opening that water passes through so much that the running water will create a whistle through the fixture.

In some cases, you can solve this problem by removing your faucet from your sink, soaking it overnight in distilled white vinegar, and scrubbing it clean with a toothbrush. If your faucet has an aerator, you may want to try removing and soaking that first before taking apart the rest of the faucet. If mineral buildup becomes a recurring problem in your home, it could be wise to invest in a water softener to extend the life of your plumbing system and water-using appliances.

2. A Dislodged or Worn-Out Washer

Your faucet’s nozzle contains a rubber washer that can wear out over time or simply become misaligned. When that happens, running water can start to make a whistling noise. You can try to move the washer back into position yourself by unscrewing the faucet nozzle and adjusting the washer. Just make sure you remember to shut off the water supply at the shut-off valve below your sink beforehand!

If you plan on replacing the washer yourself, triple-check that you’re purchasing the correct size replacement to avoid a leak and a bigger repair down the road. If not, you can always contact a trusted plumber.

3. Faulty Valves

Sometimes the hot or cold water valve can restrict water flow, and that can cause a high-pitched sound when the water runs. You can test this by trying each hot and cold water handle separately. If you own a single handle faucet, you can push it all the way to the left or right to see if the hot valve or cold valve is causing the problem.

In some situations, the valve components simply have mineral buildup and can be fixed with an overnight soak in vinegar. If they’re warped or cracked, they’ll need to be replaced.

4. Excessively High Water Pressure

If there’s more than one whistling faucet in your home, then this is a fairly strong sign that your water pressure is too high. In most homes, the water pressure should be in the range of 40 to 60 psi. When it exceeds 60 psi, you’re more likely to put premature wear-and-tear on your plumbing system and cause problems like leaks and water hammer.

You can increase or decrease your home’s water pressure using the pressure regulator or by adjusting the cut-off pressure on the pressure pump. Similarly, you can gauge your home’s water pressure with a pressure gauge, which is easy to find at most home improvement stores. Of course, if you’re unsure of how to operate these devices, it’s best to contact a plumber to avoid damage to your plumbing system.

How to Fix a Whistling Faucet?

A whistling faucet is often caused by restrictions or vibrations within internal components. The following steps progress from simple homeowner checks to professional repairs:

Clean or replace the aerator to remove mineral buildup.
Inspect the washer and O-ring for wear and replace if needed.
Examine the cartridge for looseness or corrosion.
Check water pressure using a gauge to ensure it is within 40–60 PSI.
Call a professional plumber if valve seats are damaged or noise persists.

Why Does My Faucet Make a High-Pitch Sound?

High-pitch noises are typically caused by water moving through a narrowed or vibrating pathway:

Mineral buildup can constrict internal channels.
High water pressure forces water through faster than designed.
Loose internal parts such as washers or valve seats can vibrate.
Material acoustics—metals like copper and steel carry high-frequency vibrations more than PEX or PVC.

Why Does My Faucet Squeal When I Turn It On?

Squealing at startup is often due to sudden changes in water flow or pressure:

Air in lines compresses and releases, producing noise.
Worn washers or loose cartridges move under pressure, causing vibration.
Partial obstructions at the valve seat create narrow flow channels.
Water hammer or pipe vibration from quick valve openings can amplify the sound.

Gradually opening the faucet, flushing air from lines, and tightening loose parts can reduce squealing. Persistent issues should be inspected by a professional.

Faucet Repair & Installation in Houston

If you’re having trouble with a faucet in your home, you can count on Power Plumbing Services for prompt, reliable plumbing services. Our Houston plumbers are experts at getting to the root cause of plumbing fixture issues and will present you with the best options to meet your needs. Call us today at (346) 662-1245 or contact us online.