Volume sliders, do they actually do anything?

[Jeraal]

I have tried adjusting the sliders but it doesn't seem to actually do anything. I get tired of hearing rushing water all the time so I tried moving the sliders on effects and ambience with no noticeable change. If I check NO SOUND, well there's no sound. But the sliders just don't seem to change the volume at all. Is this just me? Am I supposed to hear water effects constantly, no matter where I have my view centered?