Whenever you turn off the tap or flush the toilet, if you hear some kind of banging noises in the pipes, this could be a water hammer. It is a sign that your plumbing system needs help. If left ignored, this could lead to significant damage, whose repair costs can be quite expensive. Thankfully, there is a solution to this problem known as a water hammer arrestor. In this blog, we will discuss what a water hammer arrestor is, why it is important, and how it works. At Parzival Plumbing, we understand how anxious this situation can make you. Our team of professionals provides services across Laguna Hills, Seal Beach, and all around Orange County.
What Is a Water Hammer?
A water hammer is the sudden sound or vibration caused in the pipes. This situation normally occurs when you turn off the faucet, and water moves rapidly in the pipes. When water strikes the pipe, it creates a shockwave. This shockwave gives a strange sound like the banging one. You may think it is non-harmless, but if you’re experiencing the same sound frequently, then it may affect your plumbing system by weakening pipes, loosening fittings, and causing leaks.
What Is A Water Hammer Arrestor?
A water hammer arrestor is a plumbing mechanism that mitigates the shock wave when water flow abruptly stops, causing the water to crash against the plumbing pipes. It is like a cushion for the water, which prevents the vibrating noise from the pipes. The water hammer arrestor consists of a chamber in which air is present, which gives a cushion-like feel to water.
How Does It Work?
The water hammer contains a chamber filled with either air or spring. When water flows quickly, the pressure is redirected to this chamber. There is an air or spring inside the chamber that is compressed because of the water pressure. The filled air or spring absorbs the pressure, resulting in no banging noise or any vibration. If this water hammer arrestor is not there, then the pressure of water hits the pipes and causes damage over time.
Why Is A Water Hammer Arrestor Important?
Initially, the water hammer doesn’t feel like a big issue. Gradually, it causes damage to the plumbing system. Here are the reasons why installing a water hammer arrestor is crucial:
Prevent Pipe Damage – Constantly hammering water into the pipes can damage them. This can lead to cracks in the pipes, through which pipes can burst.
Protect Appliances – Your appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, can all be damaged if they experience continuous hammering.
Reduce Noise – The loud banging noise is very frustrating. By installing a water hammer arrestor, your place will become more peaceful.
Improve Home Safety – Water hammering increases the chance of pipe bursting. A water hammer arrestor can reduce this risk.
Saves Money – Fixing the water issue can be expensive. Using a small device that is simple and affordable can prevent bigger problems in the future.
Common Places To Use A Water Hammer Arrestor
Water hammer doesn’t occur everywhere in the home. It usually happens around fixtures and appliances that use water rapidly and are cut off abruptly. The common places where installing a water hammer arrestor will be helpful are dishwashers, toilets, washing machines, and shower valves. Out of all these, an overlooked fixture is the toilet.
Water Hammer Arrestor For The Toilet
Modern toilets typically come with a valve that stops the water rapidly. This may cause a worse water hammer. This can affect the plumbing system badly. If you are also experiencing this sound when your toilet tank is just completed refilling, then you might need help. It is essential to use a water hammer arrestor as it protects the valve from breaking, prevents leakage, and eliminates the hammering sound, making your bathroom peaceful. At Parzival Plumbing, we service Costa Mesa so our customers never have to find themselves in an awkward situation.
Signs You Need A Water Hammer Arrestor
Here are some signs through which you can come to know the need for a water hammer arrestor:
- There is a loud knocking sound when you turn off the valve.
- Mild leakage near fixtures.
- If you have an older plumbing system with metal pipes.
- The appliance makes a strange sound after usage.
- Toilets thump after filling.
If you notice these signs, then it is time to install a water hammer arrestor.
How To Install A Water Hammer Arrestor?
With the help of a plumber, installing a water hammer arrestor is quite easy. The steps involved in the installation process are given below:
- Turn off the water supply to the fixtures.
- Disconnect the supply line.
- Place the water hammer arrestor between the valve and the supply line.
- Reconnect the pipes and ensure all fittings are secure.
- Turn on the water supply and examine for any leaks.
For most appliances, some arrestors can be purchased that fit directly on the water supply hose and require no pipe cutting. However, if pipes are inside the wall and you are not sure which arrestor will work for your situation, it is better to simply call a professional plumber. Parzival Plumbing will assist you in selecting an arrestor that solves your issue and install it perfectly.
Types Of Water Hammer Arrestor
There are different types of arrestors available depending on your needs:
- Residential Arrestors – These arrestors are quite easy to install. They are designed for fixtures like toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines.
- Inline Arrestors – These types of arrestors are usually installed during new construction.
- Compression Arrestors – These types of arrestors do not need any tools for installation. This is usually installed between the valve and the hose.
A plumber can guide you with the right arrestor according to your needs.
Benefits Of Using A Water Hammer Arrestor
- Reduced Noise – Remove loud banging noise after you flush a toilet or shut off a valve.
- Pipe Protection – Avoid long-term damage to pipes by installing an arrestor.
- Reduced Strain – Avoid stress on appliances that use water and help them last longer.
- Cost Savings – Avoid costly repair bills charged by your plumber and unwanted water damage.
Final Thought
Water hammering is something you should not ignore. If you have heard this sound, then your plumbing system is asking for help. The simple solution for this problem is a water hammer arrestor. Whether you are facing a water hammer arrestor toilet issue or leakage around fixtures, installing an arrestor is a smart decision. At Parzival Plumbing, we believe in solving the situation before it gets worse. Our professional team can access your home and help you out.
