Many problems can develop in your plumbing system, and you may not notice them until they turn into more serious situations. A common concern is water hammer, which alerts you with a knocking noise. When this problem happens, you should contact a plumber, as this issue occurs when there’s too much pressure reverberating against the pipes. It can lead to significant damage if not handled promptly. Here’s what you need to know.

A Guide to Water Hammer

What is water hammer?

Water is only meant to travel in one direction through the pipes. When its course reverses, the problem is called water hammer. This develops when there’s a surge of pressure, or waves of shock, that causes the fluid traveling in a single direction to either move backward or come to an abrupt halt. Known as hydraulic shock, this pressure is typically characterized by knocking noises within the pipes. That’s a result of the impact of water against the pipe’s walls. 

What are the effects of this problem?

The pressure produced by water hammer can be shocking to the pipes. As the flow reverses its path or stops completely, greater pressure from shockwaves puts enormous strain on the pipes. The more that water hammer occurs, the more likely the pipes will suffer damage due to the intensive pressure put on the walls. This can lead to issues like damaged joints and eventual leaks. 

While they may be small at first, these leaks can worsen with time and cause significant structural damage. The increase in pressure can even cause the pipe to rupture.

How do plumbers fix it?

Your plumber may install a check valve designed to reduce pressure. The type of valve is dependent on the intensity of flow reversal and how much pressure is exerted. One option is a spring-assisted valve that gently closes the valve before the water has a chance to flow in the wrong direction, thereby preventing water hammer from occurring. 

Another option is to install an air chamber. This short pipe segment is filled with air that absorbs shock if the water moves in the wrong direction. This minimizes the intensity of the shockwaves that would otherwise cause damage to the pipe. 

Can water hammer be prevented?

The most common cause of water hammer is high pressure. If your home’s pressure exceeds the limit recommended by your plumber, consider installing a device to regulate the pressure levels. Compromised air chambers may also be to blame, a problem that only a contractor can determine. If the problem is due to an appliance putting too much pressure on the pipes, an arrestor can be used to absorb the shock it causes.
 

If you’re concerned that your plumbing system may have water hammer, let the professionals at Passanisi Services in Elyria, OH, assess the situation for you. Proudly serving clients throughout Lorain County, these plumbers offer a range of services to ensure that your system always runs smoothly, from drain repairs to sewer cleaning. Visit the website to learn more about how they can help you, or call (440) 984-2322 to schedule an appointment.