5 Easy Tips On How to Stop Water Hammer – Expert Plumber’s Advice

image of a pipe | How to Stop Water Hammer | JET Plumbing

Water hammer can be a noisy and annoying problem in your home. It happens when water suddenly stops or changes direction in your pipes, causing a loud banging sound. If you’re wondering how to stop water hammer, you’re in the right place! In this blog, we will share five easy tips that can help you reduce or eliminate this issue. With some simple steps and expert advice, you can enjoy a quieter home and protect your plumbing system. 

What is a Water Hammer? 

Water hammer is a loud noise that happens in pipes when water suddenly stops or changes direction. This can occur when a faucet is turned off quickly or when a valve closes fast. The sudden stop causes a shock wave in the water, which creates a banging sound. It can feel like a hammer hitting the pipes, hence the name “water hammer.” This noise can be annoying and may also cause damage to the plumbing system over time.

The sound of a water hammer can be loud and startling. It often happens in homes with older plumbing or when the pipes are not secured well. When water flows through pipes, it moves smoothly. But when it hits a closed valve or a stopped faucet, it creates pressure that makes the pipes shake. This shaking can lead to leaks or even breakage if it happens too often.

5 Common Causes of Water Hammer

image of a wrench on a pipe | How to Stop Water Hammer | JET Plumbing

Water hammer is a loud banging noise in plumbing systems. It happens when water flow suddenly stops or changes direction. This can cause shockwaves in the pipes, leading to the annoying sounds we hear. There are several common causes of water hammer that homeowners should know.

One major cause of water hammering is loose pipes. If pipes are not tightly secured, they can move when water pressure changes. This movement creates noise as the pipes bang against walls or other structures. To prevent this, pipes should be anchored securely to the building framework. Checking for loose straps or brackets can help keep pipes in place and reduce noise.

Another common cause is sudden valve closure. When valves close too quickly, they can cause a rapid stop in water flow. This is often seen in appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. The sudden halt creates a shockwave that travels through the pipes, resulting in the banging sound. Using slow-closing valves can help reduce this issue by allowing water to stop more gradually.

High water pressure is also a frequent culprit of water hammering. When water pressure is too high, it can create strong shockwaves when the flow is stopped. Normal water pressure should be around 30 to 55 psi. If it exceeds this, installing a water pressure regulator can help maintain safe levels and reduce the chances of water hammering.

Inadequate air chambers can contribute to water hammering as well. Air chambers are designed to absorb shockwaves in the plumbing system. If these chambers become waterlogged or blocked, they cannot function properly. This leads to loud banging noises when water flow changes. Regular maintenance can help keep air chambers clear and effective.

Lastly, fast-acting valves can cause water hammer. These valves, found in many appliances, stop water flow suddenly. When the water flow is abruptly halted, it creates a shockwave that travels back through the pipes. Choosing valves with slower response times can help minimize this effect and reduce noise in the plumbing system. 

How to Stop Water Hammer in 5 Easy Ways 

Water hammer is a common plumbing issue that can create loud banging noises in your pipes when water flow is suddenly stopped. This problem can occur in various systems, including sprinkler systems, toilets, and taps. Here are five easy ways to stop water hammer and restore peace to your home.

Install a Water Hammer Arrestor

One effective way to stop water hammering is to install a water hammer arrestor. This device acts as a cushion that absorbs the shock caused by sudden changes in water flow. You can attach it to the supply line near the source of the water hammer, such as the valve for your sprinkler system or toilet. By doing this, you can significantly reduce the noise and potential damage caused by water hammer in house pipes.

Lower Water Pressure

Another method to stop water hammering is to lower the water pressure in your system. High water pressure can lead to more severe hammering noises. You can adjust the main shut-off valve to reduce the pressure. For sprinkler systems, try partially closing the valve until the water hammer noise decreases. This method can also help when trying to figure out how to stop water hammer in taps and toilets, as lower pressure reduces the velocity of water, minimizing the hammer effect.

Adjust Valve Closure Speed

The speed at which valves close can also contribute to water hammering. If your sprinkler system or toilet valves close too quickly, it can create a shockwave in the pipes. Consider adjusting the valves to close more slowly. This gradual closure allows the water to decelerate smoothly, reducing the chances of water hammering. This technique is particularly useful for understanding how to stop water hammer when flushing the toilet.

Use Air Chambers

Air chambers are simple devices that can help mitigate water hammer. These are vertical pipes that create an air pocket, which absorbs the shock of the water when it stops suddenly. If your home plumbing does not have air chambers, you can install them near the valves that are causing the hammering. This method is a classic solution for how to stop water hammer in house pipes.

Regular Maintenance

Lastly, regular maintenance of your plumbing system can prevent water hammer from becoming a recurring issue. Check for leaks, tighten loose fittings, and ensure that all components of your sprinkler system and household plumbing are in good condition. Keeping your system well-maintained can help you avoid the noise and damage associated with water hammering, whether it’s in your irrigation system or your home’s plumbing.

How to Stop Water Hammer: Assessing Damages 

Water hammer can be a serious problem for your irrigation system, causing loud noises, pipe damage, and even valve failure over time. It occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped, creating a pressure surge that slams into pipes and valves. To stop the water hammer in your sprinkler system, you’ll need to assess the damage and choose the right solution.

The first step is to determine how severe the water hammer is in your system. Turn on your sprinklers and listen for loud banging noises when they shut off. You can also use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure spike. If the water hammer is very loud or causing visible pipe movement, it’s likely causing significant damage and needs to be addressed promptly.

How to Stop Water Hammer With the Help of JET Plumbing

Trying to fix a water hammer on your own can be tricky. There are many potential causes, from loose pipes to high water pressure, and the solutions vary depending on the specific issue. Securing pipes, installing water hammer arrestors, and adjusting valves are some DIY options. However, for more complex problems or if you’re unsure of the cause, it’s best to call in a professional plumber.

At JET Plumbing, our licensed and experienced plumbers can quickly diagnose the cause of your water hammer and implement the right solution. We offer a range of services to help stop water hammer in Australia, including pipe repairs, water hammer arrestor installation, and pressure reducing valve fitting. Our team has the expertise to get your pipes back in top shape and prevent future water hammer issues.

Don’t let water hammer disrupt your home and potentially cause costly damage. Contact JET Plumbing today at 0438 154 587 to schedule a visit from one of our professional plumbers. We’ll get to the bottom of your water hammer problem and provide a reliable, long-term fix. With JET Plumbing, you can say goodbye to those loud banging noises for good!

FAQs

What happens if you ignore water hammer?
If you ignore water hammer, it can lead to serious problems in your plumbing. The loud banging can weaken your pipes and cause leaks, which may eventually lead to burst pipes. This can disrupt your water supply and result in costly repairs.
How do you turn off the main water hammer?
To turn off the main water hammer, first, locate the main water shut-off valve in your home. Turn this valve to shut off the flow of water completely. This will stop the water from moving and help reduce the noise from the water hammer.
What is the main cause of water hammer?
The main cause of water hammering is a sudden change in water flow in the pipes. This change creates a force called hydraulic shock, which causes loud banging noises. It often happens when a faucet is turned off quickly or when a washing machine stops filling with water.
How to stop water hammer in Australia?
To stop water hammer in Australia, you can follow a few simple steps. First, check if your water pressure is too high and reduce it if necessary, as high pressure often causes water hammering. Additionally, you can install a water hammer arrestor, which helps absorb the shock and stop water hammer in house pipes effectively. If you're unsure how to stop water hammer, consider calling a professional plumber for help.
What is the best way to stop water hammer in house pipes?
The best way to stop water hammer in house pipes is to hire a professional plumber. A licensed plumber can diagnose the cause of your water hammer and implement the right solution, such as securing loose pipes, installing water hammer arrestors, or adjusting valves. For more information on how to stop water hammer, contact JET Plumbing at 0438 154 587 to schedule a visit from one of our expert plumbers.
Why does the water hammer happen at night?
Water hammer often happens at night because the water pressure in your pipes can be higher when other appliances are not in use. When you turn on a tap or flush a toilet, the sudden stop of water flow creates a loud banging sound. This is why many people notice water hammer at night when their home is quieter.
Should I call a plumber for a water hammer?
If you have a water hammer problem, it's best to call a professional plumber. A plumber can quickly diagnose the cause of your water hammer and provide the right solution. Trying to fix it yourself can be risky, so it's safer to hire an expert plumber to stop water hammer in your home.
How do plumbers fix a water hammer?
Plumbers fix a water hammer by first checking the pipes for loose fittings and securing them. They may also install water hammer arrestors, which are special devices that absorb the shock of moving water. If needed, they can adjust the water pressure to help stop water hammer in your home.
What can cause water hammer and make my pipes bang?
Water hammer is often caused by sudden changes in water flow, which can make your pipes bang loudly. This usually happens when a valve closes quickly, creating a shockwave in the water pipe. If you notice noisy pipes, it’s important to address the issue to prevent further plumbing problems.

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