Water hammer is the term for a knocking or banging sound that is heard in the pipes when a valve is shut off suddenly. The sound is caused by a pressure surge that is created when the water is forced to stop or change direction suddenly. The sound is also caused by the vibration of the water as it moves through the pipes. If this is not fixed it can cause serious damage to the pipes and the home.
What Causes Water Hammer?
Water hammer is usually caused by a combination of factors. The most common cause is the sudden closing of the valve. The sudden shut off creates a pressure surge that causes the pipes to vibrate and knock. The second factor is the type of pipe that is being used. Pipes that are made of metal are more prone to water hammer than those made of plastic. Finally, the size and length of the pipes can also play a role in the sound.
How to Fix Water Hammer
The first step to fixing water hammer is to identify the source of the problem. If the problem is caused by the type of pipe, then the pipe needs to be replaced with a plastic pipe. If the problem is caused by the size of the pipe, then the pipe needs to be replaced with a larger diameter pipe. If the problem is caused by the sudden closing of the valve, then the valve needs to be replaced with a slow-closing valve.
Install a Water Hammer Arrestor
If the problem is caused by the sudden closing of the valve, then the best solution is to install a water hammer arrestor. A water hammer arrestor is a device that is designed to absorb the pressure surge and reduce the sound. The water hammer arrestor is installed between the shut off valve and the pipe. This will help to reduce the amount of sound that is produced when the valve is closed.
Check the Pipes for Leaks
If the problem is caused by the type of pipe, then the next step is to check the pipes for leaks. Leaks can cause the pipes to vibrate and knock, which can lead to water hammer. To check for leaks, the pipes need to be inspected closely for any cracks or holes. If any are found, they need to be repaired or replaced before the water hammer can be fixed.
Insulate the Pipes
Another way to fix water hammer is to insulate the pipes. Insulating the pipes will help to reduce the noise and vibration that is caused by the water moving through the pipes. Insulation can be applied to the inside and outside of the pipes to create a barrier between the water and the walls of the pipe.
Install an Expansion Tank
If the problem is caused by the size of the pipe, then the best solution is to install an expansion tank. An expansion tank is a device that is designed to absorb the pressure surge and reduce the sound. It is installed between the shut off valve and the pipe. This will help to reduce the amount of sound that is produced when the valve is closed.
Check the Pressure Regulator
If the problem is caused by the pressure of the water, then the pressure regulator needs to be checked. The pressure regulator is responsible for controlling the pressure of the water in the pipes. If it is not working properly, then it can cause the pipes to vibrate and knock, which can lead to water hammer. The pressure regulator needs to be checked and adjusted to the correct setting.
Replace the Shut Off Valve
If the problem is caused by the sudden closing of the valve, then the best solution is to replace it with a slow closing valve. A slow closing valve will help to reduce the pressure surge that is created when the valve is shut off suddenly. This will help to reduce the amount of sound that is produced when the valve is closed.
Check the Connections
Finally, the connections between the pipes and the fixtures need to be checked for any leaks or loose fittings. Loose fittings can cause the pipes to vibrate and knock, which can lead to water hammer. The connections need to be tightened or replaced to ensure that they are secure.
Conclusion
Water hammer is a common problem in the home and can cause serious damage to the pipes and the home. The best way to fix water hammer is to identify the source of the problem and then take the necessary steps to fix it. This can include replacing the pipes, installing a water hammer arrestor, insulating the pipes, replacing the shut off valve, and checking the connections.