Pipe Hammering: Understanding and Solving the Banging Noise in Your Plumbing
The sudden, loud banging sound coming from your pipes when you turn the water on or off can be alarming. This unnerving phenomenon is known as water hammer, and it occurs due to a pressure surge in your plumbing system.
What is Water hammer?
Imagine a fast-moving stream of water being suddenly stopped by a closed valve. The momentum of the water creates a shockwave that travels through the pipes, causing them to vibrate and bang against surrounding structures. This is water hammer.
Causes of water hammer:
- Quick valve closure: Closing faucets or valves too quickly is the most common cause of water hammer
- Faulty air chambers: Air chambers are designed to absorb pressure surges and prevent water hammer. However, they can become waterlogged or malfunction over time.
- Long pipe runs: Water has mass, and the longer the pipe runs, the greater the potential for water hammer
- Improper pipe installation: Loose pipes or unsecured supports can amplify the sound of water hammer.
Signs of water hammer:
- Loud banging or hammering noises from pipes: This is the most obvious sign of a water hammer.
- Vibrating pipes: You may feel pipes vibrating when water is turned on or off.
- Leaking pipes: In severe cases, the pressure surge from water hammer can cause pipes to leak.
Can Water Hammer cause damage?
While water hammer is often more of a nuisance than a major problem, it can lead to several issues if left unaddressed:
- Damaged pipes: The constant stress of water hammer can weaken and damage pipes over time.
- Loose pipe connections: Water hammer can loosen pipe connections, leading to leaks.
- Noise complaints: The loud banging sounds can be disruptive and annoy neighbors.
How to fix water hammer:
There are several ways to fix water hammer, depending on the severity of the problem:
- Close valves slowly: This is the simplest solution and can significantly reduce water hammer.
- Install air chambers: Air chambers absorb pressure surges and prevent water hammer. If your air chambers are old or malfunctioning, they need to be replaced.
- Shorten pipe runs: If possible, shorten long pipe runs to reduce the potential for water hammer.
- Secure loose pipes: Make sure all pipes are properly secured to prevent them from vibrating and banging.
- Install water hammer arrestors: Water hammer arrestors are specialized devices that absorb pressure surges and prevent water hammer.
Additional tips:
- Use soft-closing valves: These valves close slowly and can help prevent water hammer.
- Insulate pipes: This can help reduce noise transmission from pipes.
Conclusion:
Water hammer is a common plumbing problem that can be easily fixed with the right approach. By understanding the causes and symptoms of water hammer, you can take steps to prevent it and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Our plumbing professionals at PVA Plumbing can fix water hammering. Contact us at 770-765-2225, email us at info@pvaplumbing.com, or view our website at pvaplumbing.com.
