Whenever you turn off the tap or flush the toilet, you may notice a strange sound. This unusual sound relates to a banging noise that occurs inside the pipes. This could be a water hammer. Take it as a sign your plumbing system is asking for help. Don’t ignore this sound; if left unaddressed, this could result in expensive damage. You don’t have to worry about this; thankfully, we have a water hammer solution 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 all around Orange County.
What Is a Water Hammer?
A water hammer is a sudden pressure surge that causes a sound or vibration in the pipes. This situation normally occurs when a faucet, toilet valve, or appliance valve shuts off quickly, and water moves rapidly in the pipes. When moving water stops suddenly, it creates a shockwave. This shockwave causes a banging or knocking sound. You may think it is harmless, but if you are experiencing the same sound frequently, then it may affect your plumbing system. It can weaken your pipes , loose fittings, and cause leaks.
What Is a Water Hammer Arrestor?
A water hammer arrestor is a plumbing mechanism that mitigates the shock wave when water pressure 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 the water.
How Does It Work?
The water hammer arrestor contains a chamber filled with either air, gas, or a 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 the 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. With water hammer arrestor installation, 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 has just finished refilling, then you might need help. A water hammer arrestor can help reduce stress on the valve and supply connection, lower the risk of leaks, and stop the hammering sound, making your bathroom quieter. At Parzival Plumbing, we provide water hammer repair service in Costa Mesa and can help find the cause of banging.
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.
- Pipes that shake or vibrate when a valve closes.
- Older metal pipes that rattle when the water shuts off.
- The appliance makes a strange sound after use.
- Toilets thump after filling.
If you notice these signs, a plumber can confirm the cause and where an arrestor should go. Loose pipes or high water pressure can cause similar noises.
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor?
With the help of a plumber, water hammer arrestor installation is a straightforward job. The general steps involved in the installation process are given below, and they vary by arrestor type and pipe material.
- Turn off the water supply to the fixtures and disconnect the supply line.
- Place the water hammer arrestor between the valve and the supply line, as close as possible to the valve or appliance that shuts off quickly.
- Reconnect the pipes and ensure all fittings are snug, but do not overtighten them.
- Turn on the water supply and examine for any leaks, then run the fixture and listen for any remaining banging.
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 plumber for water hammer. Parzival Plumbing will assist you in selecting an arrestor that solves your issue and install it perfectly.
An arrestor cannot fix every cause of banging. Loose pipes and high water pressure can keep the noise going, so a plumber may need to secure the pipes or check your pressure as part of water hammer repair. If the banging continues after installation, a plumber for water hammer problems can find the source and recommend the right fix.
Types of Water Hammer Arrestors
Point of Use Arrestors – These arrestors are often easy to install. They are designed for fixtures like toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines and attach near the end of a supply line.
Inline Arrestor – These types of arrestors are installed into the supply line directly and can protect more than one fixture.
Compression Arrestors – These types of arrestors connect with compression fittings. They are 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 a water hammer 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 Thoughts
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 toilet that bangs after it refills or leakage around fixtures, a water hammer arrestor may be the right fix. At Parzival Plumbing, we believe in solving the situation before it gets worse. Our team can assess your plumbing and recommend the right fix for your Orange County home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the right place to install a water hammer arrestor?
Install it as close as possible to the valve or appliance that shuts off quickly, such as a washing machine, dishwasher, or toilet supply line. The closer it sits to where the water stops, the better it absorbs the shock. If both hot and cold lines bang, each may need one. A plumber can pick the best spot.
Why do my pipes still bang after I install a water hammer arrestor?
One reason is loose pipes. If pipes are not secured, they can keep knocking against framing even with an arrestor in place. The arrestor may also be too far from the noisy valve, or high water pressure may be adding to the problem.
Can high water pressure cause water hammer?
Yes. High water pressure can make water hammer more likely. The California Plumbing Code calls for a pressure regulator above 80 psi, and regulators can wear out or fail. A plumber can test the pressure with a gauge and check the regulator.
How can I tell if the noise is water hammer?
Water hammer is usually a bang or thump right after a faucet, toilet, or appliance shuts off. If you are unsure, contact Parzival Plumbing. Our plumber can check it for you and provide a water hammer solution.
When should I call a plumber for banging pipes?
If you notice any leaks near fixtures, several fixtures, or the pipes are making that banging noise, call a plumber for water hammer repair.