Do you hear strange noises coming from your pipes, like banging or hammering sounds? If so, you might be experiencing a common plumbing issue known as a water hammer. Water hammers be a nuisance and, if left unchecked, lead to more severe plumbing problems. A water hammer is a hydraulic shock wave that occurs when your plumbing system is suddenly interrupted or redirected. It typically happens when a valve, faucet, or appliance shuts off quickly. The sudden stoppage of water flow causes a surge of pressure, creating a banging or hammering noise within the pipes.
Common causes of water hammer
To effectively fix water hammer issues, you need to understand what’s causing them in the first place. Here are some common causes:
Fast-Closing Valves– The most common cause of water hammering is fast-closing valves. These valves shut off the water flow abruptly, creating a surge of pressure in the pipes.
High Water Pressure– Excessively high water pressure in your plumbing system exacerbates water hammer problems. When there’s too much pressure, the shockwaves are more pronounced.
Loose or Damaged Pipes– Loose or improperly secured pipes rattle and vibrate when water flows through them, contributing to water hammer issues. Additionally, damaged pipes may amplify the noise.
Air Chambers– They is mitigating water hammer, plumbing systems with air chambers or water hammer arrestors. These chambers contain air cushions that absorb the shockwaves. Over time, air chambers fill with water, rendering them ineffective.
How to Fix Water Hammer
- Install water hammer arrestors
Water hammer arrestors are devices designed to absorb the shockwaves created by sudden water flow stoppages. If your plumbing system doesn’t already have water hammer arrestors, consider hiring a plumber to install them. They come in various sizes and types, so a professional determine the right ones for your system. Get more information through baysideplumbing.com.au.
- Reduce water pressure
Excessively high water pressure is a common contributor to water hammer. To address this issue, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) in your plumbing system. A PRV will regulate the water pressure, preventing sudden surges to the water hammer. A qualified plumber installs and calibrates a PRV to ensure it operates correctly.
- Secure loose pipes
If loose or improperly secured pipes are contributing to the noise, you fix this by securing them more effectively. Use pipe hangers and supports to anchor the pipes firmly in place, reducing vibration and noise.
- Drain your plumbing system
To address water hammer caused by air chambers that have filled with water, you drain your plumbing system. Turn off the main water supply and open all faucets and valves in your home or business for the water to drain out completely.
- Replace fast-closing valves
If your plumbing system has fast-closing valves that are causing water hammer, consider replacing them with slow-closing valves. Slow-closing valves reduce the sudden stoppage of water flow, which helps minimize the pressure surges responsible for the water hammer. A plumber assists with selecting and installing the right valves for your needs.
- Seek professional help
While some homeowners and business owners may attempt to fix water hammer issues on their own, it’s often best to consult with a professional plumber. A qualified plumber and experience in diagnosing the root causes of the problem and implementing effective solutions.
