Quick Fault Finder
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Keys stick or don't return | Swollen key bushings, debris, broken spring | Soon |
| Note sounds dead (no sound) | Broken hammer shank, broken string | When convenient |
| Note sounds much softer than neighbours | Hammer action fault, loose string | When convenient |
| Buzzing or rattling sound | Loose part, sympathetic resonance | When convenient |
| Piano sounds out of tune | Normal drift — book tuning | Soon |
| Note keeps sounding without key pressed (ciphering) | Damaged damper or broken spring | Prompt |
| Pedal squeaks or doesn't work | Worn bushing, broken rod, loose trap work | When convenient |
| Bright metallic tone on specific note | Broken string wire wrapping | Prompt |
| Multiple notes sound simultaneously when one key pressed | Damper not returning to string | Prompt |
Sticky Keys
The most common fault in Singapore pianos. Most commonly caused by swollen key bushings in humid weather. Contact us for professional repair — do not force stuck keys. Full guide: Sticky Keys Repair Singapore.
Dead Notes (No Sound)
A key that produces no sound when pressed has a mechanical fault between the key and the hammer or string. Common causes:
- Broken hammer shank — the wooden dowel connecting the hammer to the action has snapped
- Broken string — a string has snapped and the hammer strikes without any string to vibrate
- Broken bridle strap — the leather strap that assists hammer return has broken
These are straightforward repairs. Contact us to book a repair visit — most dead note repairs are completed in a single visit.
Buzzing Sounds
A buzzing or rattling sound on specific notes can be caused by many things. Our technician systematically diagnoses the source during a repair visit. Common causes include loose screws in the cabinet, a loose damper wire touching the string it should damp, a foreign object inside the piano, or a cracked soundboard rib.
Ciphering (Note Won't Stop Sounding)
A note that continues to sound without the key being pressed — called "ciphering" — usually means the damper is not returning to the string correctly. Causes include a broken damper return spring, a warped damper head, or a damaged damper guide rail. This should be repaired promptly as the sustained note disrupts other music being played.
When to Call a Professional
We recommend calling Singapore Piano Shop whenever you notice:
- Any key that doesn't work, sticks, or behaves erratically
- Any new sound (buzzing, clattering, metallic tone)
- A pedal that is stiff, squeaking or not functioning
- Any visible damage to strings, hammers, or action parts
Early intervention prevents small issues from becoming expensive repairs. Contact us via WhatsApp to describe the problem — we can often advise on urgency before a visit is needed.
Questions? Talk to Our Expert
Singapore Piano Shop — 20+ years experience. Call or WhatsApp for advice.
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