A water hammer or hydraulic shock is the loud bang you hear when a faucet or water-using appliance is quickly shut off. The cause of the banging is by the shock wave that causes the pipes to move and strike against one another or another closeby structure such as wall studs or floor joists. But it isn’t just annoying?! It could potentially damage your plumbing system. Read on to find several methods of eliminating water hammer.
Tightening Pipes
Even a tiny shock wave can create loud banging if the pipes aren’t secured well. This usually won’t cause pipe damage, but the sound is still an annoyance to deal with. Tightening any loose pipe straps or hangers that secure the pipes to studs or joists will prevent water hammer from occurring. Here are some other ways to stop it:
Foam Pipe: Foam pipe insulation wraps around pipes to absorb any shock and prevent banging.
Pipe Straps or Hangers: Additional installations of pipe straps or hangers where pipes cross studs or joists.
Resetting Air Chambers
In older homes, water supply systems may have air chambers located on every hot and cold water line or near each faucet or water inlet valve. These chambers are usually located behind walls along with the rest of the plumbing pipes. The purpose of the air in the chamber is to act as a shock absorber for high speed flowing water. Over time, this can fill up with water, eliminating the air that absorbs shock. By shutting off the water supply and draining the pipes, the chambers can be full of air again.
Installing Water Hammer Arrestors
Installing a water hammer arrestor on each water supply line is usually the best solution for the long-term elimination of water hammer. The water hammer arrestor is similar to an air chamber but it includes air or gas-filled chamber sealed by a diaphragm or piston. The diaphragm or piston moves to absorb the shock from the water. The water and air or gas are kept separate, meaning that water will never need to drain from the arrestor.
Installing a Water-Pressure Regulator
When the pressure of the water entering the building is too high, water hammer can occur. Normal water pressure runs between 40 – 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Anything past 80 psi is thought to be very high pressure and can damage appliances. Installing a water-pressure regulator where the main water supply enters the home will help to control the pressure, protecting all appliances and fixtures against high water pressure. After testing, if water pressure is higher than normal with a pressure gauge kit from a hardware store, adjust the regulator to a pressure below 50 psi or as needed.
If the source of your water hammer issue cannot be found. Consider calling your local plumbing professional to assess and fix the issue for you. If you have any further questions, contact us!
