Understanding and Resolving Water Hammer in Home Plumbing

Water hammer, also known as water shock, is a common issue that can occur in home plumbing systems, leading to loud banging noises and potentially damaging your pipes. This phenomenon is caused by a sudden change in water pressure within the pipes, which can have various reasons. In this guide, we will explore what causes water hammer, how to identify it, and steps you can take to resolve it.

The Causes of Water Hammer

Water hammer can occur due to several reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

Pipes Expanding and Contracting: Changes in water temperature can cause the pipes to expand and contract, which can lead to water hammer. This is more common in systems where the pipes are made of materials that can expand and contract. Air Bubbles in the System: Air trapped in the pipes can cause water hammer. This air can become a bubble when the water pressure changes, leading to a sudden increase in pressure. Sudden Changes in Water Pressure: Activities such as toilet flushing, valve closure, or pump operation can cause a sudden change in water pressure, leading to water hammer.

What is Water Hammer?

Water hammer, or water shock, is the rapid change in fluid velocity in a pipe, which results in a forceful impact. This force can cause the water and the pipes to oscillate, leading to the loud banging noise that is characteristic of water hammer. In some cases, the pressure can be so high that it can cause damage to the pipes and fittings.

While water hammer can be a nuisance and potentially dangerous in extreme cases, it is not uncommon and can often be resolved with simple fixes.

How to Identify Water Hammer

Identifying water hammer is relatively straightforward. You will hear loud, banging or knocking sounds in your home plumbing system, particularly when turning on faucets, flushing toilets, or closing valves. These sounds are usually most noticeable when you are using hot water.

Resolving Water Hammer

There are several steps you can take to resolve water hammer in your home plumbing system:

1. Bleed the Air from the System

Air is a common cause of water hammer, and it can be easily removed. Follow these steps to bleed out the air:

Shut off the main water supply valve. Open all faucet valves in your home to allow the water to flow out. Drain the water lines and the hot water tank. Turn the water supply back on and close the valves at each tap when the water flow is strong. Repeat this process for each sink, tub, and washing machine’s cold water inlet. Fill the hot water tank and close the tank valve when water flow is strong.

By following these steps, you can remove the air from the system and significantly reduce or eliminate water hammer.

2. Install a Water Hammer Arrestor

A water hammer arrester is a device designed to absorb the pressure surge that causes water hammer. It works by storing the excess energy and then slowly releasing it back into the system, reducing the pressure spikes that cause the banging.

Note: This is a more permanent solution and might require professional installation.

3. Secure Pipes to the Wall

Improperly secured pipes can cause water hammer because they are free to move. By securing your pipes to the wall with pipe clamps, you can limit the movement and reduce the likelihood of water hammer.

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