Tap making a screeching or squealing noise when turned on

A screeching or whistling noise from a tap as water flows is almost always caused by a worn or vibrating tap washer (on traditional pillar taps) or a worn ceramic cartridge (on quarter-turn taps). The water flow causes the damaged component to flutter and vibrate.

Identify which tap is making the noise — open each tap individually to isolate it. Note whether it occurs on hot, cold, or both, and at what flow rate.

For traditional pillar taps: the jumper and washer assembly is vibrating. A worn washer with a hardened edge flutters in the flow. Replacing the washer (see our pillar tap rewashering guide) usually cures this immediately.

For quarter-turn ceramic disc taps: a worn or chipped disc can create the same vibration. Replace the ceramic cartridge (see quarter-turn cartridge replacement guide).

For mixer taps: if the noise only occurs at certain handle positions (partially open), the issue may be the valve seats or the cartridge. Try a new cartridge first — if the noise persists, the tap body seat may be damaged.

High pitched noise only at full flow on a brand new tap installation can indicate a flow rate or pressure issue — excessive mains pressure causes some taps to vibrate. A pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on the incoming main may resolve it system-wide.