Water hammer is not just an annoying noise; it signals potential problems within your plumbing system. When water flow is abruptly stopped, it creates a shockwave that causes pipes to shake and bang. If ignored, this pressure can lead to significant damage to your plumbing.
At Robinson Plumbing, your trusted local plumbing company in Lehigh Valley, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing issues like water hammer before they result in costly repairs. Our experienced team uses effective solutions to eliminate the noise and protect your pipes.
In this article, we’ll explain what causes water hammer, why it’s essential to address it, and how professional plumbing services can help resolve the issue.
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Stop the Bang: How to Fix Water Hammer & Quiet Noisy Pipes for Good
Contents
- 1 Stop the Bang: How to Fix Water Hammer & Quiet Noisy Pipes for Good
- 2 What Is Water Hammer & Why Does It Happen?
- 3 The Risks of DIY Hydraulic Hammer Repairs
- 4 When to Call for Plumbing Repair Services in Lehigh Valley
- 5 Water Hammer: FAQs
- 5.1 Can Water Hammer Affect My Home’s Water Heater or Other Appliances?
- 5.2 Is Water Hammer More Likely in Homes With Newer or Older Plumbing?
- 5.3 Are There Building Code Requirements Related to Water Hammer Protection?
- 5.4 Can Water Hammer Happen on the Hot Water Line Only?
- 5.5 Is It Possible for Water Hammer to Start Suddenly After Years Without Noise?
- 6 Conclusion
- 7 Call Robinson Plumbing For Superior Plumbing Services
Water hammer is an indication that your plumbing system is under stress. By understanding the causes and solutions, you can take steps to protect your plumbing system. Professional help makes sure that the issue is addressed correctly, preventing future disruptions.
Worried About Long-Term Damage from Water Hammer?: Prevent costly leaks and pipe wear with a professional inspection. Call now to schedule service!
What Is Water Hammer & Why Does It Happen?
Water hammer plumbing occurs when water flow is abruptly halted or redirected, causing a surge of pressure that leads to noisy water pipes and the characteristic pipe banging sound. This issue is often caused by fast-closing valves or high water pressure.
Warning signs of water hammer include sharp thudding noises after a valve shuts off, pipes vibrating or rattling within walls, and sounds emanating from appliances like washing machines.
If left unchecked, these plumbing noise causes long-term damage, such as pipe stress, joint failure, and leaks. Identifying the source of the noisy water pipes is crucial to preventing further harm and maintaining a reliable plumbing system.
Loose or Poorly Secured Pipes
Loose or poorly secured pipes commonly contribute to water hammer plumbing issues. When pipes aren’t properly anchored, they move under pressure, amplifying the effects of water hammer and causing noisy water pipes. This movement generates louder pipe banging sounds and accelerates wear on the pipes over time.
Warning signs of poorly secured pipes include hearing loud banging or thudding noises that seem to resonate throughout the walls or floors, often occurring after water is turned off. You might also notice visible movement in exposed pipes or a slight wobble when pressure builds up.
To fix this, a plumber will need to secure water pipes and check for loose straps or supports. Sometimes, adding extra brackets or cushioning materials can help with pipe vibration repair and reduce noise. If the issue involves concealed piping, it is best to call a professional.
Noticing Noisy Pipes After Appliance Use?: We’ll assess your valves, pressure, and pipe supports to find the best solution. Contact us today!
Missing or Failing Water Hammer Arrestors
Water hammer arrestors are designed to absorb pressure shock and are typically installed near appliances. If your plumbing system lacks these devices or the air chambers have become waterlogged, the shockwaves created by water hammer have no place to dissipate.
A common sign that the water hammer arrestor isn’t working is hearing loud banging when using appliances like dishwashers or laundry machines. Additionally, you may notice little improvement after securing the pipes, indicating that the shock is not being absorbed properly.
Some systems may benefit from draining to recharge the built-in air chambers. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, a licensed plumber can perform air chamber repair or recommend installing mechanical water hammer arrestors to provide long-term protection from plumbing shock. These plumbing shock absorbers ensure pressure is safely absorbed, preventing further damage to your pipes.
Concerned About the Pressure in Your Plumbing System?: High water pressure may be making things worse. Let us check it out. Call now!
High Water Pressure
Excessive water pressure can significantly affect your plumbing system, making water hammer more likely and severe. High home water pressure causes water to surge forcefully from faucets, increasing the risk of noisy water pipes and the pipe banging sound. This added pressure can also result in leaks, dripping connections, and strain on fixtures and joints, causing long-term damage.
To assess if your system has high water pressure, a water pressure gauge can help determine if the levels exceed the recommended 40-80 psi. If necessary, a plumber will install a plumbing pressure valve, such as a pressure-reducing valve, which can help reduce water pressure and restore balance, preventing further plumbing issues.
Fast-Closing Valves and Appliances
Appliances with solenoid or quick-closing valves are often the culprits behind water hammer. They create an abrupt stop in water flow, causing a sudden shockwave through the plumbing system. This shockwave results in noisy water pipes and the characteristic pipe banging sound.
Common warning signs include banging noises when appliances like washing machines or refrigerators shut off, and the noise tends to be isolated to specific areas of the home.
To address this, upgrading to slower-closing valves or installing mini-arrestors can help mitigate the shock. A plumbing professional can assess your setup and recommend the best solution, whether it involves an appliance valve upgrade or other measures to prevent water hammer.
Experiencing Water Hammer?: Let our skilled plumbers pinpoint the cause and prevent further issues. Contact us today!
The Risks of DIY Hydraulic Hammer Repairs
With the abundance of online tutorials and plumbing videos, it can be tempting to think that securing a few pipes or adjusting pressure is enough to fix water hammer. While some minor issues may seem manageable, the underlying causes are often more complex. Common DIY plumbing mistakes include:
- Incorrectly identifying the source of the noise
- Missing issues with hidden or hard-to-reach pipes
- Installing arrestors or supports improperly
- Overlooking pressure problems that need specialized tools to detect
- Creating new leaks or stress points by using incorrect methods
What may appear to be a simple water hammer fix could end up masking the real issue. If water hammer is caused by deeper problems, such as high system pressure, failing valves, or inadequate pipe sizing, temporary fixes can fail and lead to more severe damage.
A professional water hammer repair is essential if basic steps don’t resolve the issue or the noise persists. A plumbing inspection ensures the problem is diagnosed correctly, with a long-lasting, code-compliant, and effective solution.
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When to Call for Plumbing Repair Services in Lehigh Valley
Water hammer problems often require more than just basic adjustments to resolve. If you’ve already addressed the common causes and the noise persists or has become more severe, it’s time to contact a licensed plumber.
They will perform a detailed water hammer diagnosis, carefully inspect your plumbing layout, and measure the water pressure to identify the underlying issue. Based on their assessment, they may recommend installing water hammer arrestors, adjusting pressure regulators, or reinforcing pipe supports to stop the noise.
You should call a plumber when you can’t access the noisy pipe areas, simple DIY fixes have failed, or if you suspect a leak, corrosion, or long-term wear in your system. A professional plumber will provide the most effective noisy plumbing solutions and ensure your system functions smoothly.
Need a Long-Term Fix for Noisy Pipes?: We offer lasting solutions that quiet your plumbing and protect your home. Call now to schedule service!
Water Hammer: FAQs
Can Water Hammer Affect My Home’s Water Heater or Other Appliances?
Yes. Repeated pressure shocks can strain appliance connections, including those on your water heater. This added stress may eventually cause leaks at fittings or reduce the appliance’s lifespan.
Is Water Hammer More Likely in Homes With Newer or Older Plumbing?
Both types of homes are vulnerable, but for different reasons. Older plumbing systems may lack modern safeguards, while newer homes often include high-efficiency appliances that can trigger pressure surges under certain conditions.
Are There Building Code Requirements Related to Water Hammer Protection?
In many municipalities, plumbing codes require the installation of water hammer arrestors on appliances with fast-closing valves. A licensed plumber will be familiar with these requirements and can install devices that meet local standards.
Want a Plumbing System That Works Quietly and Efficiently?: Our experts can optimize your setup for comfort and performance. Contact us today!
Can Water Hammer Happen on the Hot Water Line Only?
Yes, but it’s more common on cold water lines. Hot water hammer may occur due to thermal expansion or pressure fluctuations from the water heater, especially if there is no expansion tank. However, most water hammer issues stem from fast-closing valves on cold water fixtures like toilets and washing machines.
Is It Possible for Water Hammer to Start Suddenly After Years Without Noise?
Yes. Changes such as new appliance installations, altered pressure levels, or the failure of an old air chamber can suddenly introduce water hammer into a system that previously operated quietly.
Conclusion
Water hammer is not just an annoying noise; it’s a sign of potential issues within your plumbing system. Identifying and addressing the root cause, whether it’s high pressure, loose pipes, or malfunctioning valves, can prevent further damage and costly repairs down the line.
If you’re dealing with noisy pipes, contact a trusted plumbing service company in Lehigh Valley. A licensed plumber can provide a professional pipe banging fix, restore peace in your home, and make sure your plumbing system remains in good condition for the long term.
Hearing Loud Banging from Your Pipes?: Our plumbers will identify the cause and restore peace to your plumbing system. Contact us today!
Call Robinson Plumbing For Superior Plumbing Services
Turn to Robinson Plumbing when you need dependable plumbing services in Lehigh Valley. We offer an extensive array of services, including toilet repair services, sump pump installations, drain cleaning, water heater installations, leak repairs, and more. Our services are tailored to meet your specific needs and budget. Benefit from our same-day emergency plumbing service, which is designed to address your urgent plumbing needs swiftly and economically.
Our proficient service is renowned throughout Lehigh Valley. Our professionally certified plumbers ensure top-quality work and complete satisfaction. Contact Robinson Plumbing for a consultation and discover our dedication to excellence.
Facing plumbing issues? Contact us now! Our skilled team is ready to resolve all your plumbing challenges.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have! Click the link to view our service area.
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