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When everything is working properly, it’s easy to take water for granted. You turn on your faucet, water comes out, and you continue going about your day. That’s why it might scare you to start hearing loud clanging and clashing in your pipes. This is known as a “water hammer.” Although you should call a plumber to fix the issue, you may want to know the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about water hammers, just for your own reassurance.

What You Need to Know About Water Hammers

What is a water hammer?

When water flows rapidly through a pipe and is forced to a sudden stop by an appliance, valve, or faucet abruptly shutting it off, a shock causes the pipes to bang against each other and whatever other solid material is nearby. That’s a water hammer. It’s also called hydraulic shock, and it’s one of the most common plumbing problems.

Does a water hammer affect or even damage the pipes?

plumberAlthough the noise can be alarming, the pipes will only experience serious damage if water hammers occur frequently. When plumbers install new pipes, they include “air cushions,” or spaces of empty air that allow the pipes to move without hitting something. It works as long as the air cushions don’t become inundated with water. 

How do you fix a water hammer?

For pipes that don’t already have air cushions, you install an air chamber, an empty pipe into which rebounded water can flow when it’s shocked into halting. Alternatively, you could put in a water hammer arrestor, which is similar to an air chamber, except that it’s capped or sealed off, and they’re fastened directly onto faucets or valves. A professional plumber can do all this without a problem.

How do you prevent water hammers in the future?

Usually, as long as you make sure that your air chambers aren’t getting waterlogged, you shouldn’t have to deal with water hammers. Check them regularly and drain them if necessary. Call a plumber if the issue still arises or persists.

 

After more than 35 years as one of the most trusted plumbing businesses in Cincinnati, OH, Midwestern Plumbing Service has the expertise to fix not only water hammers but any other plumbing issues you may be experiencing. They’re skilled in services, ranging from drain cleaning and water treatment to heating and septic systems and trenchless drilling. To schedule an appointment with a professional plumber, call (513) 753-0050 or visit them online.

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