Exploring Water Hammers and How to Fix Them in Plumbing Pipes

First thing, what is a water hammer? A water hammer is a hydraulic shock. It occurs after an increase in water pressure, usually following the closing of a valve or a faucet. When it happens, the water changes direction in an instant.

Because of that, the water tries to find a new place to go. As a result, the water bangs on either the shut-off valve or the pipe walls. The pressure and extra flow create a powerful and often loud impact. 

The resulting pounding noise is a water hammer. Four distinct situations can create this effect.

High water pressure

It’s one of the leading causes of water hammers. When residential water pressure gets too high, the hammering sound often occurs, regardless of the faucet or appliance used.

To troubleshoot this, it’s essential to have a water pressure gauge. They are affordable and easy to find at any hardware store. Before checking the pressure, remember to turn off all faucets and appliances that draw water.

Install the pressure gauge on a valve. Slowly open the valve and read the number shown after the needle stops moving. A pressure reading of over 80psi can indicate a serious issue and time to call a plumber.

Water leaking in air chambers

The vertical pipes that regulate water pressure are the air chambers. When one of those pipes has too much water inside, it creates water hammers.

Resetting the air chambers is relatively easy. First, shut off the main access valve. Open all other valves and faucets. This process helps drain the excess water suspended by the additional pressure in the pipes.

Shaky pipes

An older plumbing system is more likely to generate water hammers. Older pipes may not have proper fittings. As a result, the pipes shake and wiggle during pressure changes.

A visual inspection of the pipes can offer insight. If they shake or move significantly when grabbed, they may need replacing or reinforcing.

In the best-case scenario, adding a few pipe supports or some tape can do the trick. Otherwise, it’s essential to call a plumber.

A powerful appliance

Water-hungry appliances can also cause water hammers. It’s because water demand can create fluctuations in water pressure.

That leads to water banging against valves and walls.

Washing machines and dishwashers consume the most water. An ice maker can also trigger the effect, but it’s less likely. Sprinkler systems are another.

Unplug each appliance until the banging stops. To fix it, you can use a water hammer arrester, commonly sold in hardware stores. Each type of appliance has its own arrester design and instructions on how to use it.

Don’t complicate the situation

Although some fixes are not challenging, water hammers can still do a lot of damage. Left unchecked, they wear down the pipes and can lead to structural damage. It is always best to call an experienced plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.

Water Wise Plumbing is a local, full-service residential plumbing company serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Boulder City, Pahrump, and North Las Vegas. We provide Tankless water heater service, water softeners, water heater flush, leak detection and repair, water line rerouting, pipe installation, hydro-jetting, sewer services, and more. We are family-owned and operated, certified, and insured. We offer flat rate pricing and 24-hour emergency service.Call us today at (702) 605-6408.