Considering the frequent water and sewer usage that occurs in most homes, the need for plumbing repairs is bound to arise. One of the most common issues homeowners experience is water hammer. While the problem occurs often, it's not widely understood outside of the industry. Follow this guide to get a better idea of how it can impact your home. 

What Is Water Hammer?

As the name suggests, the term "water hammer" is used to designate loud banging, or hammering, within the plumbing system. It occurs when a change in pressure causes the water to hit the piping with excessive force, causing a shockwave—usually after a faucet or water appliance is shut off. Unfortunately, the issue not only causes loud noises, but there's also a risk of pipe damage and leaks if the problem isn't rectified with plumbing repairs. 

What Are the Signs?

A loud banging when shutting off any water fixture in your home is the most common symptom. However, it's possible to narrow down the leading cause of the problem based on how and when the noise occurs. For instance, when the issue is widespread throughout the home, and you're on public water supply, the overall pressure coming into the property is likely too high. 

More commonly, the main culprit is the air chambers. These vertical pipes are designed to help regulate the pressure within the system, so if water gets trapped inside them, it allows waves to form. Usually, air chambers are the problem when the sound is restricted to one area of the home, like a bathroom or kitchen. 

Many times, the noise is caused by a single appliance in the home, like the dishwasher or washing machine. You can identify such a situation if the sound only occurs while the appliance is in use or has been recently turned off. Loose piping is another culprit, especially in older homes, but the diagnosis requires professional expertise. 

How Is It Fixed?

Plumbers base their repairs on the cause behind the water hammer. Typically, the air chambers need to be cleared and reset by shutting off the water and draining the pipes. For whole-home problems, a pressure regulator is installed at the main water inlet pipe. With appliance-specific issues, an in-line water surge arrestor is added, while loose piping is simply supported with the correct harness equipment. 

If you suspect that you have a water hammer issue, protect the future of your plumbing system by turning to H & N Plumbing, Heating & Electrical in Fennimore, WI. Homeowners across Grant County have relied on the locally-owned business for residential heating, electrical, and plumbing repairs. Review their full list of services online, and speak with a plumber today by calling (888) 822-3258.