A water hammer is a loud banging noise that can occur when a valve is quickly turned off in a plumbing system. This sudden pressure change can cause pipes to vibrate and make a loud banging noise inside the walls or floors of your house.
This can be a nuisance and can even cause damage to the pipes over time. It is often caused by a sudden change in the flow of water, such as when a faucet is quickly turned off or when a toilet is flushed.
There are several ways to stop water hammer noise, including installing water hammer arresters and properly securing pipes to prevent them from vibrating.
Signs you have water hammer
The most obvious sign of water hammer is a loud banging noise coming from your pipes, typically when a valve is quickly shut off. This noise is caused by the sudden pressure change in the pipes, which can cause them to vibrate and make a loud noise.
In some cases, you may also notice other symptoms, such as pipes that are shaking or vibrating, or faucets that are difficult to turn off.
What is the cause of a water hammer?
Water hammer is caused by a sudden change in the flow of water in a home’s plumbing system. This can happen when a valve is quickly shut off, such as when a faucet is turned off or a toilet is flushed. The sudden stop in the flow of water creates a pressure wave that travels through the pipes, which can cause them to vibrate and make a loud bang noise.
Water hammer can also be caused by other factors, such as loose pipes that are not properly secured, or high water pressure in the system.
Methods for water hammer fix
Air chamber
Another method for fixing water hammer is to install air chambers. Air chambers are pipes that are installed vertically near the shut-off valves in your plumbing system. They work by providing a space for the pressure wave to expand into when a valve is quickly shut off, which helps to absorb the shock and prevent water hammer.
Having air chambers installed is an effective way to fix water hammer, and they are relatively easy to install.
Install water hammer arresters
Water hammer arresters are devices that are installed near the shut-off valves in your plumbing system. They work by providing a small air cushion that absorbs the pressure wave that is created when a valve is quickly shut off, preventing it from traveling through the pipes and causing them to vibrate.
Secure loose pipes
Loose pipes can also cause water hammer, as they can vibrate and move when the water flow is suddenly stopped. To fix this, you can secure the pipes using galvanized or steel straps or other types of supports, which will help to prevent them from vibrating and causing water hammer.
If you already have pipe straps installed you will simply need to tighten all the loose pipe straps.
Reduce water pressure
In some cases, high water pressure may be the cause of water hammer. If this is the case, you can try to reduce the water pressure in your plumbing system by adjusting the pressure regulator or installing a pressure reducing valve called a water pressure regulator.
Keep in mind that rather than installing multiple air chambers it is more advantageous to install a water pressure regulator at the location where the main water supply enters the home. This is because the device also protects dishwashers, toilets, washing machines and other appliances and fixtures against high water pressure.
Start by testing water pressure to verify that it is higher than normal. Normal water pressure runs between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). After installing the water pressure regulator at the main water supply entry, adjust the regulator to a pressure around 50 psi.
Replace damaged or worn pipes
If your pipes are old or damaged, they may be more prone to water hammer. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the damaged pipes with new ones, which will be better able to handle the pressure changes that can cause water hammer.
How to install a water hammer arrestor
To fix water hammer with a water hammer arrester, you will need to locate the shut-off valves in your plumbing system and install the water hammer arrester near each one. The water hammer arrester is a device that is designed to absorb the pressure wave that is created when a valve is quickly shut off, preventing it from traveling through the pipes and causing water hammer.
To install a water hammer arrester, you will need to follow these steps:
- Locate the main water valve in your plumbing system. This are typically located near the water meter or near the main supply line for your home’s plumbing system.
- Turn off the water supply line to the area where you will be installing the water hammer arrester. This will prevent water from flowing through the pipes while you are working on them.
- Use a pipe cutter to make a clean cut in the pipe where you will be installing the water hammer arrester. Make sure the cut is straight and even to ensure a proper fit.
- Install the water hammer arrester according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most water hammer arresters have a rubber gasket that seals against the inside of the pipe, so you will need to push the arrester into place until it is seated firmly against the gasket.
- Turn the water supply back on and test the water hammer arrester by quickly shutting off the valve. If the water hammer is reduced or eliminated, the arrester is working properly. If not, you may need to adjust the arrester or try a different type of water hammer arrester.
By following these steps, you should be able to fix water hammer using a water hammer arrester. It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the arrester to ensure it is installed properly and will work effectively.
Conclusion
Hopefully these helpful tips will alleviate the water hammer problems in your home. A home’s plumbing systems should never make unpleasant sounds. A reminder, never hesitate to call a professional plumber if you need any assistance.
