Have you ever heard a loud, unsettling bang from your pipes when turning off a faucet or running an appliance? If so, you’re likely dealing with water hammer.
This phenomenon is more than just an annoyance—it can be a sign of underlying issues in your plumbing system.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into what water hammer is, what causes it, why you should be concerned, and how you can fix or prevent it in your home.
Let’s get started!
What is Water Hammer?
Water hammer or fluid hammer is a common plumbing issue where a loud, banging noise occurs inside the pipes when water flow suddenly stops or changes direction.
This happens because the force of the flowing water hits a closed valve or faucet, creating a shockwave that reverberates through your plumbing.
It’s a symptom of high water pressure and can happen in homes with dishwashers, washing machines, and faucets that close quickly.
The sound itself might seem harmless, but the force behind it can cause serious damage to your pipes and even result in costly repairs if left untreated.
So how can homeowners prevent it? Let’s take a closer look.
What Causes it?
Several factors can contribute to this issue in your home. Understanding these causes can help you identify and address the issue quickly:
1. Quick-Closing Valves
The most common culprit is appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, which have fast-acting valves that shut off water flow almost instantly.
This sudden stop in water movement creates the shockwave that leads to water hammer.
2. High Water Pressure
High water pressure in your plumbing system can make your pipes more susceptible.
When the pressure is too high, water flows at greater force, amplifying the impact when it meets a closed valve.
3. Trapped Air in Pipes
Air trapped in pipes can cause irregular water flow, which also contributes to the problem.
Air bubbles can disrupt the smooth movement of water, leading to the pressure changes that result in the banging sound.
4. Loose Pipes
If your pipes are not properly secured, the vibration from water hammer can become louder and more frequent.
Loose pipes tend to shake when water stops suddenly, exacerbating the issue.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Water hammer isn’t just an inconvenience—it can cause real damage to your home if left unresolved. Here are some reasons why you should be concerned:
Pipe Damage
The force can weaken pipe joints and connections over time, eventually causing leaks or even bursts.
These leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs.
Appliance Wear and Tear
Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with water dispensers are also susceptible.
The pressure spikes can wear down valves and hoses, reducing the lifespan of your appliances.
Structural Damage
In extreme cases, it can cause vibrations strong enough to damage your home’s structural components, such as walls or ceilings, where the pipes are located.
How to Identify
Recognizing the signs of water hammer early can prevent serious damage to your plumbing system. Here’s what to look for:
1. Loud Banging Noises
If you hear loud banging, thudding, or knocking noises when you shut off faucets or appliances.
2. Vibrating Pipes
Do you notice that your pipes shake or vibrate after turning off water? This is another key indicator in action.
3. Leaking Pipes or Appliances
Unexplained leaks or drips from your plumbing system could be a sign that water hammer has already caused some damage.
4. Increased Water Pressure
Check your water pressure. If it’s higher than usual, it may be contributing to water hammer.
How to Prevent
Luckily, water hammer is preventable. Here are some of the most effective ways to stop it before it causes damage:
Install Water Hammer Arrestors
A water hammer arrestor is a device that absorbs the shockwave when water flow is abruptly stopped, preventing the loud banging sound.
These can be installed near appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.
Secure Loose Pipes
Ensure that your pipes are properly secured with clamps or brackets.
Loose pipes are more likely to shake and rattle, amplifying the noise caused by water hammer.
Adjust Water Pressure
High water pressure is a major factor, so it’s important to ensure your home’s water pressure is within the recommended range of 40 to 80 psi.
You can reduce water pressure by installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV).
Check for Air Trapped in Pipes
Air in your pipes can disrupt water flow.
To fix this, try draining your entire plumbing system and refilling it to eliminate any trapped air pockets.
How to Fix Water/FLUID Hammer
If you’re already dealing with water hammer, it’s important to address it before it gets worse. Here are some effective ways to fix the issue:
1. Drain the Plumbing System
As mentioned earlier, trapped air can be a culprit.
To fix this, you can drain your plumbing system to release any trapped air and restore smooth water flow.
2. Install or Replace Water Hammer Arrestors
If you already have water hammer arrestors installed, check to see if they need to be replaced.
If you don’t have them, consider installing these devices to absorb shockwaves.
3. Call a Professional Plumber
In some cases, DIY fixes might not be enough.
If you’re experiencing persistent issues, it’s time to call in a professional plumber.
When to Call a Professional
While some water hammer fixes can be handled by homeowners, there are situations where a professional plumber is necessary:
- Ongoing issues: If you’ve tried DIY solutions and the noise persists, a plumber can provide a more comprehensive fix.
- Leakage or damage: If water hammer has already caused leaks or damaged your pipes, it’s time to call a professional immediately.
- Complex systems: Homes with complex plumbing systems may require specialized equipment or expertise to fix.
Conclusion
Water hammer is more than just an annoying sound—it’s a sign that something is wrong with your plumbing system.
Ignoring it can lead to serious damage, costly repairs, and a shortened lifespan for your appliances.
However, with the right prevention and fixes, you can protect your home from the dangers.
Plumbing Solutions with True Service Plumbing
When it comes to resolving plumbing issues in Toronto and the GTA, True Service Plumbing is the trusted choice for both commercial and residential customers.
Our licensed experts specialize in diagnosing and fixing plumbing issues related to water hammer, from securing loose pipes to installing water hammer arrestors.
Experiencing loud banging noises in your pipes?
Let our team assess the situation and provide effective, long-lasting solutions to protect your plumbing system.
Contact True Service Plumbing today for expert assistance. We’re here to ensure your plumbing system operates quietly and efficiently.
