What is a Water Hammer and How to Prevent It? What Causes Water Hammer?

Water hammer is a common plumbing issue many homeowners may experience without understanding its causes or how to prevent it. You may have encountered a water hammer if you’ve ever heard a loud banging or knocking sound in your pipes when turning off a faucet or flushing the toilet. While it may seem inconvenient, a water hammer can lead to serious plumbing issues if left unchecked. This article explores what water hammer is, what causes it, how to prevent it, and how products like the Drain Buddy Ultra Flo bathtub drain stopper and Sink Stoppers can help address plumbing issues.

What is a Water Hammer?

Water hammer, also known as hydraulic shock, occurs when the water flow in a pipe suddenly stops or changes direction. This sudden change creates a shockwave, which causes the pipes to vibrate and produce a banging or thumping noise. You may hear this sound when you turn off a faucet, flush a toilet, or even when a washing machine valve closes abruptly. Water hammers can be heard in pipes throughout the house, especially in plumbing systems with high water pressure.

In simple terms, a water hammer occurs when a high-speed water flow is suddenly halted. This can create pressure waves that travel through the pipes, causing a jolt or vibration. The force of these waves can result in the loud banging sounds you hear, and if the issue is persistent, it can damage your plumbing over time.

What Causes Water Hammer?

The rapid stoppage of water flow primarily causes water hammer, but several factors contribute to this plumbing issue:

High Water Pressure

One of the leading causes of water hammer is high pressure in your plumbing system. Water flowing through pipes at a high pressure generates more force when the flow is stopped. This sudden stop can cause a shockwave that leads to a water hammer.

Sudden Valve Closure

A water hammer often occurs when a valve is closed too quickly. For example, when a faucet or toilet valve is shut off suddenly, it can rapidly stop the water flow, causing a pressure wave. Similarly, valves in appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can cause water hammer when they close abruptly.

Long, Narrow Pipes

In some homes, plumbing pipes may be extended and narrow, increasing resistance to water flow. When water is forced through such pipes, it travels at a higher velocity, increasing the chances of water hammering when the flow suddenly stops. The longer and narrower the pipe, the more likely the water hammer will occur.

Lack of Air Chambers or Water Hammer Arrestors

Air chambers or water hammer arrestors are devices installed in plumbing systems to absorb shockwaves and prevent water hammer. These devices act as cushions, preventing the shock from traveling through the pipes. If your plumbing system lacks these components, the shock from a sudden water flow stop will likely lead to a water hammer.

Loose Pipes

Pipes that are not adequately secured can amplify the effects of water hammer. When the pipes vibrate or move due to the shockwave, they can rattle against the walls or other surfaces, increasing the noise and potential for damage.

How to Prevent Water Hammer

Now that you know what causes water hammer, let’s examine ways to prevent or minimize its impact on your plumbing system. Fortunately, several solutions are available to fix this issue.

1. Lower Water Pressure

One of the most effective ways to prevent water hammer is to reduce the water pressure in your home. High water pressure is one of the primary causes of water hammer, so lowering the pressure can make a big difference. You can install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) to regulate water pressure and keep it within a safe range.

The ideal water pressure for most homes is between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). If your water pressure exceeds 80 psi, you may need to install a PRV to prevent water hammer and other plumbing problems.

2. Install Water Hammer Arrestors

Water hammer arrestors absorb the shock created by sudden water flow stoppages. They are typically installed at the end of the supply line or near appliances that frequently cause water hammers, such as dishwashers or washing machines. When water flow is abruptly stopped, the chamber is filled with air or gas compresses, preventing the shockwave from traveling through the pipes.

If your home doesn’t already have water hammer arrestors, consider installing them to eliminate water hammers.

3. Secure Loose Pipes

Loose pipes are more likely to rattle and amplify the sound of a water hammer. Ensure your pipes are appropriately secured to walls or joints to prevent this. Pipe brackets or clamps can also ensure the pipes stay in place and do not move when the water flow is stopped.

4. Install Soft-Close Valves

Consider installing soft-close valves if you have appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. These valves close more slowly than standard valves, preventing the sudden stoppage of water flow that causes water hammer. Soft-close valves are a simple yet effective way to reduce the likelihood of water hammering in your home.

5. Use Drain Buddy Ultra Flo

Products like the Drain Buddy Ultra Flo can help reduce water hammer by improving the overall efficiency of your plumbing system. This product is designed to provide smoother drainage, reducing the impact of pressure changes in your pipes. The Drain Buddy Ultra Flo ensures that your plumbing system operates more efficiently, reducing the chances of water hammer and other related issues.

6. Use Drain Strain Bathtub and Sink Stoppers

Drain Strain Bathtub and Sink Stoppers are effective for preventing clogs and help regulate the water flow in your plumbing system. By ensuring that water doesn’t flow too quickly or unpredictably, these products help reduce the chances of water hammer. Additionally, using these products prevents unnecessary strain on your pipes, which can lead to pressure fluctuations and cause water hammer.

Related In-Depth Questions

How does high water pressure contribute to the water hammer?

High water pressure increases the speed at which water moves through your pipes. When this water flow is suddenly stopped or redirected, it creates a shockwave that causes a water hammer. The higher the water pressure, the more force is generated when the flow is halted, leading to louder banging noises and a greater risk of plumbing damage.

Can water hammer damage my pipes?

Yes, water hammers can cause long-term damage to your pipes. The pressure from the shockwave can weaken the joints and fittings in your plumbing system, leading to leaks or even burst pipes. Over time, the constant vibrations caused by water hammers can cause pipes to loosen, crack, or wear out, resulting in costly repairs.

How can I reduce the risk of water hammer without professional help?

Several DIY methods can reduce the risk of water hammering your plumbing system. These include lowering your water pressure using a pressure-reducing valve, securing loose pipes, installing water hammer arrestors, and using soft-close valves on appliances. Additionally, products like the Drain Buddy Ultra Flo, Drain Strain Bathtub, and Sink Stoppers can help regulate water flow and prevent sudden changes in pressure.

Is water hammer ordinary in all homes?

Water hammer is a common plumbing issue, but it may be more prevalent in certain homes, especially those with high water pressure, old plumbing systems, or improperly secured pipes. Homes with long, narrow pipes or without air chambers or water hammer arrestors are more likely to experience this issue. Installing the right plumbing components and using products like drain strain bathtubs and sink stoppers can help prevent water hammers.

Conclusion

Water hammers can be a disruptive and damaging plumbing issue, but they can be easily controlled with the proper knowledge and preventive measures. Lowering your water pressure, installing water hammer arrestors, securing your pipes, and using soft-close valves are all effective ways to prevent water hammer. Additionally, products like Drain Buddy Ultra Flo, Drain Strain Bathtub, and Bathtub Hair Catcher can help regulate water flow and improve the efficiency of your plumbing system, preventing the conditions that lead to water hammer.

If you’re experiencing water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Drain Buddy Ultra Flo. Our team is ready to help you find the best solutions for your plumbing needs and ensure your system operates smoothly. Let us help you maintain a quieter, more efficient home.