Water hammer is a plumbing phenomenon that occurs when a shut-off valve on a fast-moving water line suddenly closes. When the valve shuts a form of hydraulic shock occurs causing the rushing water to stop and slam against the pipe. This jolts the pipe and allows it to bang against nearby pipes or the wooden studs framing the walls.
In this article, we will look at the common causes of water hammer, the problems that it can create, and steps you can take to avoid this annoying problem. It is important to realize that water hammer should be addressed by an experienced professional to ensure every potential cause is considered and remedied. Read on to learn everything about the noisy plumbing problem known as water hammer.
Causes Of Water Hammer
There are several plumbing problems that can cause water hammer. Let’s explore each in more detail below…
Blocked air chambers
A frequent cause of water hammer comes from blocked air chambers. The blockages are a result of water-filled chambers or chambers filled with residue from hard water minerals. The air that is no longer present is meant to absorb the excess pressure in your system. When it is absent, water hammer can occur.
Fast-acting valves
Valves on dishwashers and washing machines can be the cause of water hammer. These appliances are equipped with a fast-closing solenoid valve and when it closes abruptly the water stops suddenly and creates a banging noise.
Worn stop valves
Loose gland packing or worn washers can cause water hammer.
Loose pipes
Pipes are meant to be secured with mounting straps to reduce the movement in the lines. If not enough straps are installed or some have loosened, water hammer can occur as the pipes bang around. A loose pipe might not necessarily mean that you need repiping, but our team can check it out and let you know!
High water pressure
Water pressure that is too high can lead to water hammer. We can test your water pressure and find ways to reduce it to eliminate the annoyance of water hammer.
Effects of Water Hammer
When water hammer is allowed to extend over a period of time it can cause some unwanted conditions. Banging and vibrating pipes can loosen, leak, and cause other issues such as:
- Ruptured pipes from constant movement
- A constant and annoying banging sound
- Property damage from leaks and burst pipes
- Shortened life of plumbing system, fixtures, and appliances due to wear and tear
How to Fix Water Hammer
Avoiding water hammer is possible and can be achieved by taking the following steps. It is important to call in a professional as there are multiple and complicated situations that must be evaluated and addressed by a trained technician.
- Install air chambers: As stated earlier, the air chambers within the pipes act as absorbers to reduce the shock of the water when a valve suddenly closes. These chambers are vertical pipes that prevent water from forming waves in the supply pipes. If your plumbing does not have air chambers you can hire us to install them.
- Refill chambers with air: A common issue with air chambers is they can fill with water. If this happens your plumbing system will need to be drained to remove the water and allow air back into the system.
- Avoid installing fast-closing valves so the flow of high-pressure water will not stop suddenly. Instead, opt for angle seat valves or ball valves which can be closed slowly allowing for a more even reduction and stopping of the water flow.
- Replace worn stop valves and washers.
- Tighten or add mounting straps: If your water hammer is being caused by missing or not enough mounting straps we can add more and replace those that are no longer functioning properly. Adding pipe insulation will also help reduce movement in the pipes.
- Reduce water pressure: Since water hammer is directly related to high pressure it is optimal to reduce the pressure of the water entering your home. You can call your water supplier to see if they can reduce the pressure of the water they are delivering. If not, a water-reducing valve can be added so you can make the adjustment for yourself.
- Water heater: Additional pressure can come from your water heater. When water heats up it increases in pressure and when the pressure becomes too great it can cause water hammer to occur. This problem can be avoided by the installation of an expansion tank. An expansion tank is a small tank attached to the water supply line and is designed to relieve the excess pressure of the heating water. a
- Install a water hammer arrestor: A hammer arrestor can be installed at the point where your water supply hose meets your shutoff valve. Arrestors use a combination of springs and a bladder to absorb water movement and reduce the shockwaves present when there is water hammer present.
Need A Plumber In Oklahoma?
Water hammer is a noisy problem created by numerous conditions that can lead to burst pipes and plumbing disasters. Water hammer can also reduce the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures and water-using appliances. Water hammer is something that can be addressed by our technicians to grant you peace of mind you are protecting your plumbing system in the best possible ways. We are the professional plumbers you need to call to address the negative effects of annoying water hammer.
Contact our team today to get your water hammer fixed!