How to Fix Water Hammer

Water hammer, also known as hydraulic shock, is a common plumbing issue that can leave homeowners frustrated and concerned. This loud thudding or banging noise occurs in your pipes when water flow is suddenly stopped, creating a shockwave that reverberates through your plumbing system. Beyond being a nuisance, water hammer can lead to significant wear and tear on your pipes, fixtures, and appliances over time. 

Knowing how to address and prevent water hammer is essential for protecting your plumbing system and maintaining a quiet, peaceful home. Let’s explore the causes, solutions, and preventive measures you can take to eliminate water hammer for good.

What Causes Water Hammer?

To effectively stop water hammer, you first need to understand its root causes. Here are the most common culprits behind this irritating plumbing problem:

• High Water Pressure: Excessively high water pressure forces water to move through your pipes at a faster rate, increasing the likelihood of hydraulic shock when the flow is stopped abruptly.
• Quick-Closing Valves: Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers often use valves that close rapidly, causing water to stop suddenly and create a shockwave.
• Unsecured or Loose Pipes: Pipes that are not properly secured can move and vibrate when water is flowing, amplifying the sound of water hammer.
• Air Chamber Issues: Many homes have air chambers installed in their plumbing to absorb shockwaves. Over time, these chambers can become waterlogged and lose their effectiveness, leading to water hammer.

Identifying the cause of water hammer is the first and most crucial step in resolving the issue. Once you’ve determined what’s triggering the noise, you can explore targeted solutions.

Solutions to Fix Water Hammer

There are several effective methods to address water hammer, ranging from simple DIY fixes to professional solutions. Follow these steps to restore peace to your plumbing system:

1. Install Water Hammer Arrestors

One of the most reliable solutions to water hammer is installing water hammer arrestors. These small devices contain a chamber of air or gas that absorbs the shockwave caused by the sudden stoppage of water. Water hammer arrestors are typically installed on water supply lines connected to appliances and fixtures that are prone to causing the noise. They are highly effective, easy to install, and widely available at hardware stores.

2. Secure Loose Pipes

If your pipes are not properly secured, the vibrations from water hammer can cause them to bang against walls, floors, or other pipes, amplifying the noise. Inspect your plumbing system for loose or unsecured pipes and use pipe straps or clamps to hold them firmly in place. This simple fix not only reduces noise but also prevents long-term damage caused by constant movement.

3. Check and Adjust Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure is a leading cause of water hammer. Your home’s plumbing system should operate at a pressure between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). If your water pressure is too high, install a pressure regulator to bring it down to a safe level. This adjustment not only minimizes water hammer but also extends the lifespan of your pipes and fixtures.

4. Drain the Plumbing System to Restore Air Chambers

Many homes have air chambers built into their plumbing system to cushion the shock of water flow stoppages. However, these chambers can become waterlogged over time and lose their ability to function properly. Restoring them is a straightforward process:

• Turn Off the Main Water Supply: Locate your main water shut-off valve and close it.
• Open All Faucets: Starting with the highest faucet in your home, open each faucet and work your way down to the lowest point (typically a hose bib or basement faucet).
• Drain the System: Allow all the water to drain completely from the pipes. This process introduces air back into the air chambers.
• Turn the Water Supply Back On: Slowly reopen the main water valve and let the water refill your pipes. This action will push air back into the air chambers, restoring their ability to absorb shockwaves.

By draining your plumbing system periodically, you can keep your air chambers functioning optimally and reduce the risk of water hammer.

5. Replace Quick-Closing Valves

If quick-closing valves in appliances like dishwashers or washing machines are causing water hammer, consider replacing them with slower-closing or soft-closing valves. These alternatives reduce the sudden stop in water flow, preventing the shockwave that leads to water hammer.

Preventing Water Hammer in the Future

Once you’ve addressed the immediate issue, taking preventive steps can help you avoid water hammer in the future. Here are some strategies to protect your plumbing system:

• Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections: Professional plumbers can identify potential issues, such as loose pipes or high water pressure, before they turn into bigger problems.
• Install Pressure-Reducing Valves (PRVs): PRVs regulate water pressure throughout your home, ensuring it stays within the recommended range.
• Use Flexible Hoses: Flexible supply hoses can absorb some of the vibrations caused by water hammer, reducing noise and wear on your plumbing system.

Preventive measures like these not only address water hammer but also promote the overall health and efficiency of your plumbing system.

When to Call a Professional

While many water hammer solutions are DIY-friendly, some situations require the expertise of a licensed plumber. If water hammer persists despite your efforts or if you’re dealing with complex issues like pipe replacement or installing specialized devices, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.

Need Help with Water Hammer? Contact Plumbing Masters in Phoenix

If water hammer continues to be a problem in your home, Plumbing Masters in Phoenix is here to help. Our experienced team specializes in diagnosing and fixing water hammer and other plumbing issues. Whether you need to install water hammer arrestors, secure loose pipes, or adjust your water pressure, we have the tools and expertise to get the job done right.

Don’t let water hammer disrupt your peace of mind. Call Plumbing Masters in Phoenix today for fast, reliable plumbing services. Protect your home and enjoy the quiet, smooth operation of your plumbing system once again.