How to Fix a Water Hammer and Other Causes of Noisy Pipes
By: John Garcia | Date Posted: June 21, 2022
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If you ever notice a sudden surge in pressure in your water supply system, then you may be dealing with a water hammer. While a water hammer is a common plumbing issue, its effects can be quite harmful to your plumbing system.
Here, we will discuss how to prevent water hammers, as well as how to fix them quickly and effectively. We will also cover the other causes of noisy pipes in homes and commercial buildings.
What causes a water hammer?
When air and water pressure are not under the same pressure, then the culprit may be a water hammer.
Note, too, that a water hammer should not be seen as a singular condition or problem. In actuality, a water hammer is a symptom of an underlying condition. It is usually just a part of a wide list of issues that need to be rectified as soon as possible to prevent devastating damage to your property.
If the water is ice-cold to the touch, then the issue may be a water hammer. You can also determine whether or not you are dealing with a water hammer by testing the water pressure. If you notice that the water pressure is low, then the issue may be caused by a water hammer.
How to Stop a Water Hammer
A water hammer is a devastating problem that can damage water lines, as well as your property and all its appliances. When there is a sharp and sudden change in water pressure, a water hammer may be created in the process.
Water hammers are fairly common in many households. Fortunately, they can be prevented via a few easy steps, as we shall see below.
How to Locate the Source of the Water Hammer
Try to secure your water pipes and lower your water pressure. Moreover, insulating your pipes may rectify or prevent water hammers. Air chambers that have been waterlogged may also take care of the situation in record time.
You may want to look into installing top-of-the-line air chambers or leading-edge water hammer arrestors to tackle the hammer “bang”, as it were.
A worn-out faucet may need to be replaced, or a faulty shower cartridge may be the cause of the issue. Some water hammers may be caused by a faucet check valve spring that has become damaged or broken down over the years.
Unfortunately, the issue will only become worse with time. If you hear any strange banging noises or notice any sudden changes in water pressure and/or temperature, then please call a licensed and bonded plumber in your area as soon as possible.
While the symptoms of a water hammer are fairly easy to detect or notice, identifying the root cause of the issue is not easy. We would recommend that you call a plumber who has a proven track record of success to investigate the matter on-site.
Reduce Water Pressure by Fixing the Air Chamber in Your Plumbing
Homes that were built in the 1960s commonly had air chambers that were situated on the cold and hot water lines ahead of every tap. You can try draining the water pipe to get rid of the contents found within the air chamber. Simply reducing the amount of air may suffice to eliminate the water hammer.
Air chambers are lengths of pipe that, while small, help prevent water hammers. They are mounted on your water pipes, and they are usually situated near common household fixtures.
How to Fix Other Causes of Noisy Pipes
Reduce Water Pressure
A water hammer arrestor can help control water hammers. By locating the pressure regulator, you can lower the water pressure. You should be able to find it between your water meter and your primary water shut-off valve.
Water hammer arrestors are designed to absorb energy and silence the noise generated by water hammer bangs. They are user-friendly and easy to install, control, and regulate.
Replace Worn or Broken Check Valve Springs on Your Faucet
Check valves are designed to allow gas or fluids to flow in a singular direction. When there is a hydraulic shock, the check valve will help contain it so that your pipes are not impacted. They are usually installed near appliances that are affixed to your plumbing system. Some are situated near faucets.
If you want to replace a faulty or broken check valve spring, then you will need to purchase a check valve repair kit. You will need to use a wrench to extract the old valves before you thread the new ones into place.
Secure Loose Pipes
You need to secure any loose pipes to prevent possible water damage. Metal clamps should be replaced with nylon or plastic only. Screws should be used to fasten them instead of nails. Secure your pipes every 7 feet, and add supporting fasteners if needed.
Minimize noise by wrapping your pipes with plumber tape, a rubber hose piece, or some electrical tape.
Cushion Water-Supply Lines With Pipe Insulation
By doing so, the probability of burst pipes will be drastically reduced. Burst pipes can cause water damage and flooding that may require large sums to repair.
Additionally, the quality of your water supply may be impeded, so you must cushion water-supply lines with pipe insulation.
Protect Your Investment by Being Proactive
Your home will likely be the biggest investment that you will ever make in your lifetime. As such, it is important to protect your home and avoid any issues that may cost thousands of dollars to repair in the not-too-distant future.
If you notice any bizarre sounds emanating from your pipes or see a sudden change in water temperature and pressure, then please call a plumber as soon as possible.
Sources:
What is an Air Chamber in Plumbing? And Why They’re Important. – plumbing review
7 Ways How to Fix Water Hammer and Quiet Noisy Pipes (weekendbuilds.com)
Thank you for reading!
