It can be disconcerting to hear a loud banging noise emanating from your home’s pipes for no discernible reason. There could multiple reasons for these noises, spanning from a damaged pipe connector to an internal plumbing issue. More commonly, this issue is due to water hammer, which is a concerning problem that could eventually affect the integrity of your pipes. For that reason, it’s crucial to have a plumber assess the system to prevent long-term trouble. Here’s what you should know about water hammer. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Hammer

What is water hammer?

Water hammer is sometimes called “fluid” hammer. The term refers to the water traveling through the pipes at a fast pace before coming to a sudden stop. Usually, this abrupt change in course is due to some type of disturbance in the pipes, like a blockage or someone turning off an appliance or a faucet. Because the water’s path is disrupted, it immediately attempts to find another path to travel. This quick change causes the pipes to bang against one another.

What is the cause?

Sometimes, too much water collects in the air chambers associated with the affected pipes. These normally empty chambers are vertical structures that allow water to simply flow inside whenever it needs to change course due to a sudden change, such as when someone shuts off a valve. If the chamber is full, then the water doesn’t have enough room to settle inside, causing the hammer effect to occur as a result.

Can it cause damage?

The banging noise alone can be irritating, but what’s most concerning is the long-term impact that water hammer may have on the pipes. In the most serious cases, it could cause the metal to break down due to erosion. This can cause anything from minor leaks to sudden burst pipes.

How is it resolved?

A plumber can resolve the water hammer issue by draining the affected air chamber so that water has a chance to flow inside without difficulty. In some cases, powerful appliances like dishwashers or washing machines may be to blame for the banging noise. In that case, your plumber will install a water hammer arrester, which is designed to control the amount of water that flows through and limit the intensity of the pressure.
 

Are you seeking a trustworthy plumber to resolve your water hammer concerns? Turn to the team at Colorado River Plumbing Incorporated in Needles, CA. The company offers a wide variety of plumbing services designed to improve your comfort, including drain cleaning and water heater repairs. Visit them online for more information, or call (760) 326-2626 to schedule an appointment.