Hearing a strange sound coming from your faucet? You’re not alone as many homeowners experience unexpected noises, which can indicate a bigger issue with your plumbing. If you hear a thumping or banging noise, it’s likely that what you’re experiencing is water hammer.
What Is Water Hammer?
Also known as “hydraulic shock,” water hammer occurs when a change in pressure forces water through pipes at a fast rate. While pipes are designed to deal with changes in water pressure, surging water can bounce inside the pipes.
This is not only noisy, but it can cause serious damage, including:
- Damaged or burst pipes – Can cause leaks to appear within the home
- Loose pipes and joints – Increases the risk of leaks developing
- Damage to valves and fittings – Can result in flooding if components fail
- Pipe erosion – Surging water can wear down the protective layer inside pipes, leading to erosion
- Damage to appliances/fixtures – Water damage from leaks can cause appliances and fixtures to malfunction
Potential Causes and Solutions of Water Hammer
Valves Closing Too Quickly
When a valve closes too quickly, it’s not uncommon for water hammer to occur. As we turn off our faucets, we also close the valves that allow water to flow freely. While these disruptions are usually minimal, a valve that closes too fast can cause water to ping inside the pipes, causing the banging sound that is associated with water hammer.
To mitigate the problem, you may need to adjust the closing speed of the valves. Having a water hammer arrester installed can also mitigate the problem. These fixes not only prevent further damage to your pipes but may eliminate the disruptive sounds coming from your faucet.
Damaged Water Hammer Arresters
To prevent water hammer, many plumbing systems are equipped with arresters, which absorb the pressure changes that occur when a valve abruptly closes. However, if these arresters become damaged or worn-down, they can fail and water hammer can return. Luckily, water hammer arresters can be replaced by a licensed plumber.
Other Factors That Contribute to Water Hammer
Air in the Pipes
If air becomes trapped in your pipes, it can amplify the vibrations caused by water hammer. This not only makes the water hammer more intense, but it also makes the sounds louder. If you suspect that air is lingering in your pipes, you should seek help from a plumber. They have the knowledge to quickly and successfully “bleed” your plumbing system.
This process involves the opening and closing of faucets at certain times to release the trapped air. They may need to flush the water heater to completely remove the air from your plumbing system.
High Water Pressure
If water pressure is too high, it can increase the likelihood that water hammer will occur. Adjusting the pressure or identifying the cause of high water pressure can significantly reduce the problems associated with water hammer. It’s likely that you will need help from a plumber, who can quickly diagnose and fix the problem.
Consult a Licensed Plumber When It Comes to Water Hammer
If you suspect water hammer, it’s important to consult with a licensed plumber. They have the tools and knowledge needed to successfully remedy water hammer without causing damage. If homeowners attempt to fix the problem on their own, they may inadvertently cause leaks or bursts, which can lead to more damage and costly repairs.
Plus, professional plumbers are trained to work safely with electricity and water. If DIY attempts are made, you may harm yourself during the process. To ensure that repairs are being done correctly and safely, it’s best to seek the services of a professional plumber. By relying on an expert, you’ll have peace of mind knowing the issue is properly diagnosed and resolved the first time.
Looking for Reliable Solutions? Contact Superior Plumbing Today!
If you’re a metro Atlanta homeowner in need of drain cleaning services, Superior Plumbing has got you covered! We serviced several areas around Atlanta, including Kennesaw and Cobb County.
Not only do we conduct repairs, but we also perform routine maintenance and water heater installations. Contact us today at 770-422-7586 to get started. If you’re interested in our other services, visit our website by clicking the link
here.
