What is Water Hammer ?

When there is a sudden fluctuation in the water pressure in your plumbing system, water hammer happens. This quick shockwave caused by the pressure change causes pipes to shake, which is why you hear loud banging or thumping sounds emanating from your home’s walls or flooring.

If ignored, these vibrations may perhaps even eventually result in harm. Water hammer issues in your house can also be caused by worn-out valves, clogged pipes, defective fittings, and blocked vents.
Water hammer can be precisely identified and effectively addressed only by a competent plumber due to the variety of difficulties that contribute to the problem. In order to accomplish this, they will need to examine your home’s plumbing system and identify the precise cause of the issue before deciding how best to fix it.

Can Water Hammer Damage Pipes?

An abrupt shift in the water’s velocity in the pipes, usually brought on by a closed valve, can generate a pressure surge known as “water hammer.” Water supply lines, plumbing fixtures, and appliances like washing machines may sustain damage as a result of this. To lower the possibility of damage, it is crucial to place an arrestor on the water supply line. You may lessen the possibility of harming your plumbing system and any related appliances by making sure all of the valves are clear of leaks and fitted correctly with the necessary arrestor device.

Causes of  Water Hammer?

Water hammer is primarily caused by valves that close too quickly, abruptly stopping the flow of water. This rapid movement then produces a pressure wave that passes down the pipe and bangs loudly. When pipelines are too tiny for the quantity of flow passing through them, water hammer is another prevalent reason. Turbulence is produced when there is insufficient room for the water to flow freely. Pressure waves from this turbulence might result in water hammer.

Effects of Water Hammer?

It’s critical to take action to stop and lessen the possibility of water hammer in your house. Water hammer can be avoided by routinely inspecting your pipes for obstructions and ensuring that all appliances are placed properly. Additionally, every valve needs to be routinely inspected and, if necessary, replaced. If water hammer is a problem in your home and you have old copper pipes, you might want to replace them with plastic pipes because they are more flexible than copper and can better absorb stress waves.

In the event that water hammer occurs in your home, it is advisable to take immediate action to resolve the problem because, if ignored, it may eventually seriously harm your plumbing system. The first thing you should do is examine all of the appliances and valves for any issues or blockages, and replace them as needed. If this still doesn’t work, you might have to spend money adding air chambers to the system, which serve as shock absorbers and lessen the impacts of water hammer.

While using a water hammer might be harmful, it can also reveal to homeowners possible plumbing issues like clogged drains or leaky pipes, which need to be fixed right away to prevent additional damage.

How to Prevent Water Hammer?

It’s critical to install a “water hammer arrestor” to lower the possibility of damage to water pipelines. By absorbing some of the pressure produced by a rapid faucet or valve closure, this device will lessen noise and guard against possible pipe damage.

If this is an issue for you, you might want to install a water hammer arrestor in your home’s plumbing system. By forming an air pocket between the closed valve and the plumbing system, this device lessens pressure buildup and muffles loud banging noises. It must to be situated in a convenient location for access in the event that repairs or maintenance are required.

You can take other precautions to avoid water hammer damage to pipes in addition to installing a water hammer arrestor. Before operating the tap or washing machine, make sure that all washers and faucets are securely connected and that all screws are secured. Make sure the main line in your house isn’t overly pressurized as well. If it is, add a pressure regulator to maintain the ideal pressure for your plumbing system. Lastly, keep an eye out for leaks because these can also lead to an excessive accumulation of pressure within your system.